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Mosquito-borne Viruses in Australia (Queensland)

24 July 2017

Media Link quoting Queensland health authorities reports that there have been 1830 mosquito-borne virus infections reported in the past 7 months in Queensland, compared to 2462 for the whole of 2016.

There have been 112 infections in central Queensland, with 101 cases of Ross River virus disease in the Rockhampton and Gladstone areas. A further 7 cases of Barmah Forest virus were identified.

Advice for Travellers

Ross River virus (RRV) and Barmah Forest virus ( are uncommon in travellers and cause symptoms that include rash, fever, joint and muscle pains.

For Ross River virus (RRV), the risk is greatest in those planning outdoor activities (particularly camping) in rural areas of Australia, Papua New Guinea and the South Pacific Islands. Barmah Forest virus (BFV) has been found only in Australia.

  • These travellers should be made aware of the presence of RRB and FVV at their travel destination and be advised to practice good insect bite avoidance.
  • Warning notices in the media, during outbreaks and in high-risk areas, are given in Australia and should be heeded by travellers.(6)(9)

No vaccines is available and there is no specific treatment for either infection.

For further information see Ross River Fever.