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Anyone living in or planning to travel to northern Washington is advised to protect themselves from mosquito bites and be aware of mosquito-borne diseases.
The warning comes as four cases of the disease have been reported this year, with two people dying after contracting the disease in the state’s Pilbara region.
The warning has been issued for residents and visitors to the Pilbara, Kimberley, Gascoyne and Midwest regions.
Most people infected with Murray Valley encephalitis virus have no or mild symptoms.
If bitten by a mosquito carrying the disease, a small number of people – about one in 800 – can develop a severe infection that can lead to swelling of the brain and, in the worst case, brain damage or death.
There is no effective treatment or vaccine for the rare but serious virus, so the best prevention is avoiding mosquito bites whenever possible.
Dr Jay Nicholson, acting chief scientist at the Department of Health, said protection against mosquito bites is the best defense against MVE and other mosquito-borne viruses.
“We anticipate an increase in travelers to riskier northern regions in the coming weeks and I urge travelers to prepare accordingly,” Nicholson said.
“Consider some of the basic steps before your trip, such as packing effective repellent and long, loose clothing for everyone in the family.
“Residents and workers are also urged to protect themselves, especially when spending long periods of time outdoors.”
Initial symptoms of MVE include fever, drowsiness, headache, stiff neck, nausea, and dizziness.
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