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The Australian Department of Health is advising Northern Territory residents and visitors to avoid mosquito bites as Kunjin virus has been detected in the Darwin and East Arnhem areas. Kunjin virus transmission is most intense from February to the end of July.
Mosquito numbers, which are already high, are expected to increase following recent rain. Numbers will especially high within a few kilometres of mosquito breeding sites including flood pools, seasonal lagoons and wetlands.
Kunjin virus is not the only mosquito-borne virus to present a risk in the Northern territory: Murray Valley encephalitis virus has been known to occur at the same time of year.
Kunjin virus and Murray Valley encephalitis virus can cause fever, headache, nausea, rash, muscle and joint pains, rash and fatigue. More seriously, encephalitis occurs in some cases. These viruses are uncommon in travellers but:
No vaccine is available and there is no specific treatment.