Barmah Forest virus
1-minute read
Barmah Forest virus is an illness transmitted by mosquitoes and found only in Australia. An infection by the virus is not fatal and people who contract this illness recover.
Barmah Forest virus symptoms and treatment
Symptoms of Barmah Forest virus include fever, headache, tiredness, joint pain, swollen joints, muscle tenderness and skin rashes. Some people (particularly infected children) may show no symptoms.
Treatment for Barmah Forest virus involves managing the symptoms. Medication is not always necessary.
Prevention against Barmah Forest virus
To protect yourself from Barmah Forest virus, you need to protect yourself from mosquito bites.
To lessen your chance of being bitten by mosquitoes (as well as midges), cover up as much skin as possible and stay inside in the early morning or at dusk. Screen living areas, and make sure you use an insect repellent when you are outside and there are mosquitoes around.
Information on staying safe around mosquitoes can be found on the Queensland Health website.
More information
- Download healthdirect's infographic guide to mosquito bites.
- Visit our information partners' links below.
Last reviewed: January 2017
