Common Illnesses and Diseases While Travelling and Backpacking  

 

Murray Valley Encephalitis

Murray Valley Encephalitis is recognized in parts of Australia, New Zealand and New Guinea. The disease is cause by a virus in the Japanese encephalitis (JE) family. The encephalitis is transmitted by bite of infected mosquitoes. Host is principally large water birds.

Manifestations: Acute inflammatory disease of short duration involving brain, spinal cord and meninges characterized by:
• Acute onset
• Headache
• High fever
• Rigidity
• Stupor
• Coma
• Convulsions
• Paralysis
• Up to 60% case fatality rate
• No asymptomatic infections have been recorded.

Diagnosis and treatment: The disease can be identified by taking a blood test. There is no specific treatment only supportive help.

Prevent Murray valley encephalitis by:
• Avoid bites from mosquitoes
• Use insect repellant
• Sleep in air-conditioned rooms where possible

 

 

The contents above, from www.bestbackpackersinsurance.co.uk is for information purposes only and cannot substitute for professional health care or any other medical treatment. All users of this website with any health problems should always consult their medical doctor or go directly to a hospital or clinic in their destination before starting any treatment.