The Menzies School of Health Research has partnered with the NT Field and Game to study the extent of Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) within the greater Darwin region. The virus is spread by mosquitos and is known to be in the wetlands where waterfowl and pig hunting occurs around Darwin.

NT Field and Game have extended an invitation to SSAA Darwin Members to take part in this study to see how prevalent it is, and to allow anyone affected to understand what the health implications might be.

A researcher from the Menzies School of Health will hold a session for SSAA Darwin Members at the NT Field and Game Range on Sunday 20 November 2022 starting at 10am. The presentation will only take 10 - 15 minutes and you will be able to ask any questions you have. If you choose to take part of the study, blood tests will be used for testing.

All SSAA Darwin members, particularly those who fish, hunt or visit the wetlands are encouraged to attend.

Please use the RSVP function on the invite so that numbers can be passed on to the researchers.

Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) Menzies partner with Hunters for study.

• Increasing number of cases in the Top End since 2021
• People may have been infected with JEV without knowing, as many people develop no or mild symptoms. Immunity is developed after infection.
• Severe infection may result in permanent disability or death.
• Unclear true numbers of infection in the Top End. This study seeks to understand how many people from the Greater Darwin Region have been exposed to the virus to help determine how fast it has spread and who is at greatest risk. Help to better understand the risk from JEV and inform appropriate responses.

What is JE and how is it transmitted?

- can only be transmitted through mosquito bites

-waterbirds are the main reservoir for spreading the virus to mosquitos

-virus does not spread between humans

-The virus is known to infect birds and pigs

Who does it affect:

- All ages are susceptible

-High risk groups include people who work directly with mosquitoes through their surveillance, control or management, people living or working close to a piggery

- members are likely at greater risk of infection due to their close proximity and extended time spent around waterbirds and wetlands.

Partnering with Menzies in the JEV study helps increase members’ awareness, ways to reduce their risk of infection of JEV and knowledge about previous exposure to JEV.