JAPANESE ENCHEPHALITIS

Viral disease spread by mosquitoes that are active from dusk to dawn. Can cause potentially fatal encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). Endemic in most countries in Asia and some remote parts of north east Australia. Symptoms range from mild flu-like illness to high fever, convulsions and paralysis. No specific treatment but vaccine available (2 doses, given 28 days apart). The key to prevention is bite avoidance when travelling to high risk areas.