Worries over Ross River and Barmah Forrest viruses in Queensland, Australia

Due to a big increase in the mosquito population that can transmit Ross River virus and Barmah Forrest virus, health authorities are concerned that there may be an increase in these illnesses. So far this year, Queensland Health has already reported an increase in cases of Ross River virus and Barmah Forest virus in Brisbane were there have been 23 and 16 cases respectively. In the past month, there were 9 Ross River cases.

The viruses that causes Ross River and Barmah Forrest fever (an illness similar to that caused by Ross River virus) are transmitted only through the bite of an infected mosquito. Travellers to areas where these viruses are active should take all necessary precautions to avoid mosquito bites.