Reports have emerged from three states on the increased risk of mosquito-borne infections such as Ross River fever and Murray Valley encephalitis. Health authorities in South Australia caution that the transmission risk is now the highest since 2010 and the Murray River system gets a special mention. In Victoria, Ross River virus was recently detected in mosquitoes in the area around the Gippsland Lakes, while in Queensland, Ross River fever cases have doubled from 1,650 in 2019 to more than 3,300 this year. According to data published by the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System (NNDSS), Ross River fever cases have also risen this year in NSW - up from 589 in 2019 to 1,941.
Advice for travellers
Cases of Ross River fever occur throughout Australia, including more temperate southern states. Travellers visiting areas of Australia affected by recent flooding or continuing rain should take measures to prevent mosquito bites. Use a personal effective insect effective ingredient such as DEET, Picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus (PMD) when outdoors and wear long, loose-fitting, light coloured clothing – especially at dawn and dusk, the times of day when RRV-carrying insects are most active. More on Ross River virus from NSW Health.
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.