Ross River and Barmah Forest Diseases
Ross; River; Barmah; Forest; mosquito; fever; arthritis; polyarthritis; mosquitoes; bite; sting ;
Contents
Ross River and Barmah Forest diseases are caused by viruses which are spread by mosquitoes. They occur in Australia and some nearby countries such as Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. The diseases are similar, causing a fever, rash, loss of energy and joint pains which can last for many months.
What is Ross River disease?
- Ross River disease is caused by a virus infection which is spread to humans by several sorts of mosquitoes. It causes a fever, rash, joint pains (arthritis) and fatigue.
- It is the most common viral infection spread by mosquitoes in Australia.
- It is commonest when there are a lot of mosquitoes around, in hot areas and areas where there is a lot of surface water. It can be spread by mosquitoes which breed in freshwater and in saltwater marshes.
- While it has been more common in rural areas, it is now being found in city areas.
- In most parts of Australia it is more common in summer and autumn, but in some areas, such as south-west Western Australia and eastern Victoria, it is also a problem in spring.
- In South Australia, common areas for infection are along the River Murray, Murray lakes and coastal mangrove areas.
- The number of cases being reported is increasing, but this is probably mostly because more is known about it, and more blood tests are done.
- The usual animals affected by the virus seem to be kangaroos and wallabies (ie these animals are the 'reservoir' for the virus).
For more information
Department of Health (South Australia) 'Ross River Virus'
Barmah Forest disease
- Less is known about Barmah Forest Disease, but it is known to be spread by mosquitoes, and to cause a rash, fever and joint problems. The rash seems to be more obvious than in Ross River disease, and the joint pains less of a problem.
For more information
Department of Health (South Australia) 'Barmah Forest Virus Infection'
The aim of prevention is to reduce the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes.
Department of Medical Entomology, University of Sydney 'Fact sheets'
http://medent.usyd.edu.au/fact/fact.htm
The information on this site should not be used as an alternative to professional care. If you have a particular problem, see a doctor, or ring the Parent Helpline on 1300 364 100 (local call cost from anywhere in South Australia).
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