What is Barmah Forest virus?

Barmah Forest virus is a virus spread to humans by mosquitoes. It is found in Australia, where mosquitoes pick up the virus from infected animals. Animals that can carry this virus are usually marsupials, such as kangaroos.

The illness caused by an infected mosquito is called Barmah Forest virus disease.

Where is the virus found?

Barmah Forest virus can be found in Australia and was previously found in Papua New Guinea. It is especially common in rural and regional areas. It has been found in several states in Australia, including:

• Northern Territory
• Queensland
• New South Wales
• Victoria
• Western Australia

You are more likely to catch Barmah Forest virus if you spend a lot of time outside in bushland, and especially if you're in or around other mosquito habitats, such as wetlands or rivers.

What are the symptoms of Barmah Forest virus infection?

Symptoms of Barmah Forest virus infection include:

• fever
• swollen lymph nodes
• headache
• tiredness
• joint pain and swelling
• muscle tenderness
• rash

You're likely to recover from the disease and feel better within a few days, but for some people, joint pain, tiredness and muscle tenderness may continue for 6 months or more.

It can be difficult to know if you have Barmah Forest virus infection, as symptoms are similar to other viral diseases, such as Ross River virus infection. Some people with the virus, especially children, don't develop any symptoms.

What causes Barmah Forest virus disease?

Barmah Forest virus disease is caused by the Barmah Forest virus. This virus is spread to humans through mosquito bites. Mosquitoes become carriers of the virus after biting infected animals or infected people, especially in the first few days after they become sick.

The virus does not spread directly between people, or from animals to humans without mosquitoes.

When should I see my doctor?

If you think you have Barmah Forest virus infection, see your doctor for advice and testing. Your doctor can help you manage the symptoms.

Barmah Forest virus infection is a nationally notifiable disease. This means your doctor must inform government health authorities if they diagnose Barmah Forest virus infection.

How can I be diagnosed with Barmah Forest virus infection?

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. Your doctor may also ask about recent travel to areas with lots of mosquitoes.

Blood tests can confirm the infection by checking if the virus or antibodies are in your blood.

If tests show that you have Barmah Forest virus, your doctor will notify the Department of Health and Aged Care. This is so they can try to control the spread of the virus and reduce its effect on the community.

How will I be treated for Barmah Forest virus infection?

There is no specific treatment for Barmah Forest virus infection. The illness usually goes away on its own. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms, and may include:

• rest
• drinking plenty of fluids
• medicines — paracetamol may help with your symptoms

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist to see what medicines may help you.

What are the complications of Barmah Forest virus disease?

Some people can experience severe joint pain that affects their daily life and well-being. Some people can continue to have joint pain, tiredness and sore muscles for more than 6 months.

How can Barmah Forest virus disease be prevented?

The best way to prevent catching Barmah Forest virus is to protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine against the virus.

Tips to help lower your chance of being bitten by mosquitoes:

• Wear long-sleeved clothing, and wear socks or covered shoes.
• Use door and bed nets when indoors.
• Use a mosquito repellent on exposed skin that contains DEET or picaridin.
• Regularly look for and empty any containers of still water around your home, such as pot plant saucers and pet bowls. Mosquitoes breed in still water.
• Avoid mosquito-prone areas, especially at dusk and dawn.

Resources and support

• NSW Health offers a Barmah Forest virus fact sheet and a fact sheet on how to avoid mosquito bites.
• Read the Queensland Health fact sheet on staying safe around mosquitoes.
• SA Health provides information on how to protect your baby or toddler from mosquito bites.
• Visit the healthdirect Australia guide to insect bites.
• You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Languages other than English

NSW Health has translated information about Barmah Forest virus infection, mosquito borne diseases and bite prevention in other languages other than English.

Information for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples

• Aboriginal Health Council offers information on how to fight the bite and mosquito control.
• Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet offers information on personal protection from mosquitoes and biting midges.