Published on Thursday, 17 May 2018 at 12:37:21 PM
Recent activity of Murray Valley Encephalitis (MVE) virus in North Western Australia has prompted the Department of Health to issue a reminder to residents and travellers to exercise precautions in avoidance of mosquito bites in the area.
Following monthly surveillance by the Town’s Environmental Health Services, the presence of the flavivirus was detected in Port Hedland’s sentinel chicken flock earlier this month.
WA Health’s Acting Medical Entomologist, Dr Andrew Jardine said that although mosquito numbers are dropping with the onset of the dry season, results of virus activity from the sentinel chicken program highlight the need for the population to continue protective measures.
While the risk of becoming infected is low, the mosquito-borne virus can be severe, causing permanent neurological damage or death.
Symptoms of MVE include headaches, fever, nausea, vomiting, neck stiffness, disorientation and dizziness. Parents should also maintain vigilance of their children whom typically exhibit limited symptoms including irritability, poor feeding and general distress. With no vaccine or cure for the illness, individuals experiencing symptoms should promptly seek medical advice.
Hedland residents are urged to prevent mosquito bites through the following simple steps:
- Avoiding outdoor exposure at peak periods of mosquito activity (dusk and dawn)
- Routinely applying mosquito repellent containing the active ingredient diethyl tolumide (DEET) or picaridin
- Wearing protective long, loose fitting clothing when outdoors
- Eliminating potential sources of mosquito breeding on private property through regular maintenance of water sources including swimming pools and pet water bowls
For more information, contact the Town’s Environmental Health Services at 91589 300.
For media information:
Laura Hawes, Senior Communications Officer
(08) 9158 9365
lhawes@porthedland.wa.gov.au
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