More on mosquito-borne infections, with SA Health advising that Murray Valley Encephalitis (MVEV) and Kunjin viruses (KUN) were both detected recently during routine surveillance of sentinel chickens sited in Meningie, near the mouth of the Murray River. The agency did note that both infections are rare in humans in the state, but the public should take appropriate measures to avoid mosquito bites. Similar warnings, but related to Ross River virus, have been issued in for both the Surf Coast and Greater Geelong in Victoria as their early 2021 cases passed the 2020 total.
The AMA says a national response is needed to manage the 10-year syphilis outbreak that has spread ‘through parts of Queensland, the Northern Territory, Western Australia and South Australia since January 2011’. Of the more than 3,600 people infected, many are ‘young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living in remote and rural areas’. Read more
Advice for travellers
While the risk of contracting MVE is low, the virus can cause severe illness, even death in very rare cases. The vector mosquitoes are active at dawn and dusk, particularly in the first two hours after dark. They pass on the virus to humans after feeding on infected birds attracted to flooded wetlands. Travellers to wetland areas of Australia should take all measures to prevent bites. Apply an insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus [PMD] to exposed skin when outdoors.
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.