Warning for deadly Murray Valley encephalitis after first WA case in five years found in Kimberley

Residents and travellers in the Kimberley are being urged to take extra precautions to avoid mosquito bites after a case of the deadly Murray Valley encephalitis was reported in the West Kimberley — the first in WA since 2018. Murray Valley encephalitis is a serious viral infection spread by mosquito bites, which can lead to permanent neurological disease and can be fatal. Department of Health acting managing scientist Craig Brockway said it was the first human case of MVE reported in WA since 2018. “Murray Valley encephalitis virus is carried by mosquitoes and while the risk of being infected and becoming unwell is low, the illness caused by the virus can be severe or even fatal,” he said. The patient is now recovering. The virus has also been detected in sentinel chicken flocks at locations throughout the Kimberley region this year, most recently in June, indicating that the virus is active within the environment. “Residents and visitors in the region, especially individuals heading out fishing and camping, should take precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes,” Mr Brockway said. Initial symptoms of MVE include fever, drowsiness, headache, stiff neck, nausea and dizziness. People experiencing these symptoms should seek medical advice immediately. In severe cases, people may experience fits, lapse into a coma and may be left with permanent brain damage or die. In young children, fever might be the only early sign, so parents should urgently seek medical advice if concerned, particularly if their child experiences drowsiness, floppiness, irritability, poor feeding or general distress. “There is no vaccine or specific treatment for MVE,” Mr Brockway said. “The only way to prevent infection is to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.” Mr Brockway said residents and travellers in the Kimberley could avoid mosquito bites by taking the following simple steps: