Ulsan Reports First Detection of Culex tritaeniorhynchus, the Japanese Encephalitis Vector, This Year

Ulsan Institute of Health and Environment Discovers Mosquitoes in Cheongnyang-eup, Ulju-gun

No Detection of Pathogenic Viruses Such as Japanese Encephalitis

The Ulsan Institute of Health and Environment announced that on the 12th, the first Culex tritaeniorhynchus, a mosquito species known to transmit Japanese encephalitis, was discovered in Ulsan (Cheongnyang-eup, Ulju-gun).

Mosquitoes collected and tested four days later than June 8 last year showed no detection of five pathogens (Japanese encephalitis, West Nile virus, Zika virus, yellow fever virus, dengue virus).

The Culex tritaeniorhynchus is a mosquito that transmits Japanese encephalitis and generally increases in number from June in the southern regions, being observed throughout Korea. Its density peaks from July to September and it can be found until the end of October.

Most people bitten by a mosquito carrying the Japanese encephalitis virus remain asymptomatic, but in cases where it progresses to fatal acute encephalitis, 20-30% of patients may die, so special caution is required.

An official from the Institute of Health and Environment advised, "To prevent Japanese encephalitis, it is important to avoid mosquito bites and receive vaccinations. We urge children aged 12 months to under 12 years to receive vaccinations according to the standard immunization schedule. At home, use screens or mosquito nets, and when outdoors, wear light-colored long clothing and use repellents to prevent mosquito bites."

The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency issued a "Japanese Encephalitis Advisory" on March 29, after the first Japanese encephalitis vector mosquitoes of the year were identified in Jeju and Jeolla regions.

Ulsan Institute of Health and Environment