WA: Virus alerts for south west

AAP General News (Australia)
12-23-1999
WA: Virus alerts for south west

PERTH, Dec 23 AAP - The West Australia Health Department has warned residents and holidaymakers
in the state's south-west that they face an increased risk of contracting Ross River and
Barmah Forest viruses.

The department's environmental health director Michael Jackson said heavy late spring
rains combined with warm weather and unusually high tides along the south-west coast had
created ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes, which transmit the viruses.

"Our monitoring program has shown that Ross River virus is already active in some parts
of the south-west," Mr Jackson said.

"Recent weather conditions and the peak holiday season in the south-west mean mosquitoes
will thrive in ideal breeding and feeding conditions."

The viruses cause debilitating arthritic conditions and symptoms include painful and
swollen joints, lethargy, muscle pain and fever.

Mr Jackson said there was no cure or vaccine for the viruses.

Preventative measures to avoid getting bitten were the most effective defence.

AAP alm/cjh

KEYWORD: VIRUS

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