VIC:Mosquitoes pose virus threat in Vic

AAP General News (Australia)
12-29-2011
VIC:Mosquitoes pose virus threat in Vic

Victorians travelling to the state's north-central border are being warned to protect
themselves against mosquitoes after the Murray Valley encephalitis virus was detected
in New South Wales.

The virus has been found in a flock of chickens, with one case just across the border
from Echuca.

There have been no confirmed cases of MVE in humans in Victoria in over 30 years but
symptoms include headaches, fever, and seizures.

Victoria's acting Chief Health Officer ROSEMARY LESTER says anyone experiencing the
symptoms should seek medical help.

Dr LESTER says people in mosquito-prone areas should cover up by wearing long, loose-fitting
clothing and use insect repellants containing picaridin or DEET as an active ingredient
on exposed skin when camping, in their gardens or at barbecues.

AAP RTV jcr/gfr/sw

KEYWORD: MVE VIC (MELBOURNE)

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