WEST KIMBERLEY CHILD DIES OF VERY RARE CASE OF MOSQUITO-BORNE VIRUS

A child has died of the mosquito-borne Murray Valley encephalitis virus in the West Kimberley. 

The West Kimberley child had been flown to a Perth hospital for treatment and passed away on Friday.

The case was potentially exposed to infected mosquitoes in the West Kimberley region which has recently been identified as an area of MVE concern, following the Kimberley floods.

This is the second case of MVE reported in WA since 2018.

Nationally, there have been 8 cases of MVE reported in 2023, to date.

Communicable Disease Control director Dr Paul Armstrong said significant rainfall and flooding had created ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes and the risk this year may be higher than in previous years.

“We urge these communities to do everything they can to protect themselves against mosquito bites as there is no vaccination or specific treatment for Murray Valley encephalitis,” he said.

“In young children, fever might be the only early sign of infection. Parents should see their doctor or local health service if concerned, particularly if their child experiences drowsiness, floppiness, irritability, poor feeding, or general distress.”

"People can minimise the risk of infection by taking measures to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes especially when they are most active between dusk and dawn.

“Avoiding mosquito bites will also protect against other mosquito-borne infections including Japanese encephalitis and Kunjin viruses.”

While the risk of being infected and becoming unwell is low, the illness caused by MVE can be severe and even fatal.