Ross River virus in Australia: Queensland (Update 1)

Queensland Health continues to report Ross River virus infections across the state. From 1 January 2024 to 30 April 2024 there have been 2 065 cases, with more than half of these reported in southeast Queensland.

In 2023, 699 cases of Ross River virus infection were reported in Queensland.

Advice for Travellers

Ross River virus (RRV) is transmitted by mosquitoes and causes symptoms that include rash, fever, joint and muscle pains. It is uncommonin travellers.

The risk is greatest in those planning outdoor activities (particularly camping) in rural areas of Australia, Papua New Guinea and the South Pacific Islands.

• Travellers should be made aware of the presence of RRV 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.

No vaccine is available for RRV and there is no specific treatment.

For further information see Ross River Fever.