A traveller has died after contracting a mosquito-borne disease with no known vaccine in Western Australia – leading to an urgent health warning from authorities.
WA Health confirmed the person was likely exposed to mosquitoes infected with Murray Valley encephalitis (MVE) in the West Kimberley Region.
The disease has been detected across the Kimberley and Pilbara through a Health Department surveillance program.
According to the Australian Centre for Disease Control, MVE is a rare but serious infection of the brain and spinal cord that is caused by the virus and spread by certain types of mosquitoes.
The deadly Murray Valley encephalitis virus has been detected across the Kimberley and Pilbara regions through a Health Department surveillance program. Picture: Supplied
“Up to 1 in 3 people who develop encephalitis die from the disease. Of those who do survive, up to half develop long-term neurological issues,” the Centre warns on its website.
“There is no vaccine or specific treatment.
“Outbreaks happen infrequently but are always serious.”
Department of Health Managing Scientist Andrew Jardine said MVE was a rare but serious and potentially fatal illness.
“The wet season in northern WA, and the period immediately after it, are the highest risk time for mosquito‑borne virus activity,” Dr Jardine said.
Verrallina Funerea mosquito Picture: Supplied
“We urge residents and visitors to the Pilbara and Kimberley to take extra care to avoid mosquito bites during this period of increased risk, which can extend into July.
“The only way to prevent infection is to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.”
People were warned to be alert for early symptoms of MVE, which can include a severe headache, difficulty speaking or confused speech, fever, drowsiness, neck stiffness, nausea, and dizziness.
In more severe cases, individuals may experience seizures, fall into a coma, suffer permanent brain damage or die.
In young children, fever may be the only early sign of infection.
People in Western Australia’s northwest regions are being urged to take extra care to avoid mosquito bites after a traveller died from Murray Valley encephalitis. Picture: Supplied
Authorities urged anyone experiencing symptoms to seek medical care as soon as possible.
People were also urged to use repellent, wear appropriate clothing and cover prams with netting to avoid mosquito bites.
“Keep grass and other vegetation short to help prevent mosquitoes around your home,” health authorities said.
“Empty or remove water holding containers around your home.”