
Pig owners in the Riverina have been placed on high alert following the detection of a rare virus at multiple piggeries across the state.
The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) has confirmed Japanese encephalitis virus (JE) has been detected in samples from six properties across Western and Southern NSW.
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JE is a mosquito borne disease than can cause reproductive failures in pigs and in rare cases severe neurological illnesses for humans.
Dr Sarah Britton, the DPI's Chief Veterinary Officer, said the virus does not present a food safety risk and all Australian grown pork remains safe to eat.
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An incident management team has been created to lead an emergency response and work to minimise the impact on industry and the community.
NSW Health has issued a public health alert, urging residents in the Riverina and across NSW to protect themselves from mosquito bites.
"There is no specific treatment for JE or othe rmosquito-borne viruses," NSW chief health officer Dr Kerry Chant said. "The best way to avoid infection is to avoid being bitten by mosquitos."
The outbreak comes off the back of a hot and wet summer which has caused a major population boom for mosquitos across the Riverina.
Earlier this month, equestrians in Wagga were placed on alert due to the detection of West Nile virus in local horses.
Farmers who suspect JE in their pigs or other livestock are urged to report to the DPI's 24-hour emergency animal disease hotline on 1800 675 888.

Monty Jacka
Monty is a journalist at The Daily Advertiser in Wagga. He can be reached at m.jacka@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Monty is a journalist at The Daily Advertiser in Wagga. He can be reached at m.jacka@austcommunitymedia.com.au