Don’t Become Complacent About Murray Valley Encephalitis (MVE)

Detections of the Murray Valley Encephalitis (MVE) virus continue in the Murrumbidgee, which means we all need to remain vigilant when protecting ourselves against mozzie bites.

A sentinel chicken used for surveillance of viruses in the Murrumbidgee Local Health District’s (MLHD) Leeton flock has tested positive for MVE antibodies after a collection on January 29.

MVE was also detected in mosquito trappings at Grifith on February 6. Acting Director of Public Health, MLHD, Alison Nikitas said detections in sentinel chickens suggested that virus levels within mosquito populations were high and there was potential for the virus to spread to people.

“It remains very important for the community to remain aware of the risks and to continue taking precautions against mosquito bites,” Ms Nikitas said.

“Avoiding mosquito bites will also protect against other mosquito-borne infections including Japanese encephalitis, Ross River Fever and Barmah Forest virus.

“There is no vaccination or specific treatment for Murray Valley encephalitis and the best way to avoid infection is to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes, which are most active between dusk and dawn.” Protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites by:

• wearing light, loose-fitting long-sleeved shirts, long pants and covered shoes and socks, especially around dusk and dawn
• applying repellent to all exposed skin, using repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus
• re-applying repellent regularly, particularly after swimming, after first applying sunscreen
• covering openings such as windows and doors with insect screens and checking there are no gaps in them
• removing items that might collect water (such as old tyres, and empty pots) outside your house where mosquitoes can breed
• improving drainage on your property so that water does not become stagnant
• using insecticide sprays, vapour dispensing units and mosquito coils to repel mosquitos (mosquito coils should only be used outside).

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• Health & Wellbeing