Two mozzie viruses detected in Kimberley

Residents and travellers in the Kimberley are being warned about two mosquito-carried viruses that have found their way to the region.

Department of Health scientist Dr Michael Lindsay said there had been a confirmed detection of Kunjin virus in the Kimberley and several probable detections of Murray Valley encephalitis virus.

No human cases of MVE or KUN have been reported in WA since 2011.

But evidence of them has now been detected in sentinel chicken flocks, which are used as an early warning system for virus activity.

Dr Lindsay said both viruses were only carried by mosquitoes, and while the risk of being infected and becoming unwell was low, the illnesses can be severe.

“It is important that people across the Kimberley protect themselves from mosquito bites,” he said.

Initial symptoms of MVE include fever, drowsiness, headache, stiff neck, nausea and dizziness.

People experiencing these symptoms should seek medical advice quickly.

In severe cases, people may experience fits, lapse into a coma, and may be left with permanent brain damage or die.

Parents should consult a doctor if their child experiences drowsiness, fever, floppiness, irritability, poor feeding, or general distress.

Preventing mosquito bites is important because there are no specific cures or vaccines for MVE.

Dr Lindsay said the KUN virus usually caused milder symptoms than MVE virus, but in rare cases could also cause severe symptoms, including headache, neck stiffness, fever, delirium and coma.

“People do not need to alter their plans to visit the Kimberley region, but it is important they take some simple steps to avoid mosquito bites when camping, fishing or undertaking any other activity outdoors,” he said.

Simple steps to avoid mozzie bites•Avoid outdoor exposure around dawn and early evening.

•Wear protective (long, loose-fitting, light-coloured) clothing when outdoors.

•Apply a personal repellent containing diethyl toluamide (DEET) or picaridin to exposed skin or clothing.

The most effective and long-lasting formulations are lotions or gels. Natural or organic repellents are generally not as effective as DEET or picaridin or need to be reapplied more frequently.

•Use mosquito coils and mosquito lanterns and apply barrier sprays containing bifenthrin in patio and outdoor areas around houses.