The Japanese encephalitis virus is spread by particular types of mosquitoes.

Pigs are an important

host for the virus, where it can multiply to very high levels in their blood. Mosquitoes that feed on
infected pigs can become infected with the virus and then transmit it to humans.

Signs and symptoms

headache
fever
seizures (fits)
coma.

Prevention
Exclusion from childcare, preschool, school or work is not necessary but people who are infected
should avoid being bitten by mosquitoes while they are unwell.
Personal protection and the environmental management of mosquitoes are important in preventing
illness. For information on how to protect yourself, see Fight the Bite.

Immunisation

A vaccine is available that provides protection against Japanese encephalitis. Three injections are
required over a 1 month period which gives protection for about 3 years. A travel medicine doctor will
be able to give advice on immunisation.

Reference:

http://www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/public+content/sa+health+internet/health+topic
s/health+conditions+prevention+and+treatment/infectious+diseases/japanese+encephalitis