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 is found in Australia and Papua New Guinea. It is especially common in rural and regional areas. It has been found in several states in Australia, including:

• Queensland
• New South Wales
• Victoria
• Western Australia

You are more likely to catch Barmah Forest virus if you spend a lot of time outside, especially in and around wetlands or rivers.

What are the symptoms of Barmah Forest virus infection?

Symptoms may include:

• fever and chills
• swollen lymph nodes
• headache
• tiredness
• swollen joints, joint pain and muscle tenderness
• rash

You're likely to recover from the disease and feel better within a week. In some cases, joint pain, tiredness and muscle tenderness may continue for more than 6 months.

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.

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

When should I see my doctor?

If you suspect you have Barmah Forest virus disease, visit your doctor for advice and testing. Your doctor can help manage your symptoms.

Barmah Forest virus infection is a nationally notifiable disease. This means your doctor must inform government health authorities if they diagnose a case of 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 ask about recent travel to areas with lots of mosquitoes.

Blood tests can confirm the infection by checking if you have the virus, or antibodies to it, in your blood.

If you test positive for Barmah Forest virus, your doctor will notify the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing. 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's no specific treatment for Barmah Forest virus disease. The illness usually resolves 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 continue to have joint pain, tiredness and sore muscles for more than 6 months. Most people can return to work within a few days of getting sick.

How can Barmah Forest virus disease be prevented?

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

To reduce your chance of being bitten by mosquitoes:

• Wear loose, long-sleeved, light-coloured clothing. Remember to also wear socks and covered shoes. Mosquitoes will bite through tight clothing.
• Use a mosquito repellent on exposed skin that contains DEET or picaridin.
• Regularly check and empty any containers of still water around your home, such as pot plant saucers. 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.
• 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.
• Download healthdirect's infographic guide to mosquito 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.

Other languages

HealthTranslations Victoria offers translated information about:

• Barmah Forest virus infection
• floods and mosquito-borne diseases
• protecting yourself from mosquito-borne diseases

Looking for information for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people?

• 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.