The disease
Murray Valley Encephalitis is a rare disease caused by virus infection with Murray Valley Encephalitis Virus that is transmitted by infected mosquitoes.
Most infected people don’t develop any symptoms, or only experience mild symptoms. These symptoms include headaches, vomiting, muscle aches, loss of appetite, fever and diarrhea. Rarely, the virus may cause a brain infection known as encephalitis, and symptoms may include neck stiffness, severe headache, sensitivity to bright lights, drowsiness, confusion, seizures or loss of consciousness and coma. If experience such symptoms, please contact a doctor immediately.
Please also visit: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/factsheets/Pages/murray-valley-encephalitis.aspx
Spread in the HNECC
Latest sentinel surveillance detected no Murray Valley Encephalitis Virus in the HNECC region (nswasp-weekly-report-2023-01-28.pdf).
How is the virus transmitted
Murray Valley Encephalitis Virus is transmitted when a mosquito bites an infected human or animal, and then bites a human. Marsupials and cattle and water birds are considered to be the most common amplifying hosts for Murray Valley Encephalitis Virus. The virus is commonly found along the Murray Darling River Basin, but not limited to this area. People working or living near bodies of water, or visitors spending outdoor time in the Great Dividing Range have an increased risk. There is no transmission from person-to-person.
Prevention of Murray Valley Encephalitis Virus Infection
Preventing mosquito bites is the most effective strategy to minimize your risk as there is currently no vaccine available.