Download Ross River Fever and Barmah Forest Disease

Ross River Fever and Barmah Forest Disease
Background
 Ross River Fever and Barmah Forest Virus are two similar viral illnesses transmitted by mosquitoes
 Characterised by fever, rash and joint pains
 They can occur in epidemics associated with proliferation of mosquitoes
 The incubation period is between 3–11 days
 Ross River Fever does cause significant arthralgia for several months in a number of patients, most
usually recover in 4-7 months
Related topics:
 Upper respiratory tract infection, page 227
1.
May present with:
 Common viral symptoms – fever, chills, headache, off food, nausea and malaise
 There may also be preceding URTI symptoms – nasal discharge, sore throat, cough
 Joint symptoms of pain and stiffness - any joint may be affected though most commonly the ankles,
knees, fingers, wrists and elbows
 Joint swelling in more severe cases
 Rash – may or may not be present, transient, usually maculopapular and not itchy
2.
Immediate management – not applicable
3.
Clinical assessment:
 Obtain complete patient history
 Perform standard clinical observations
 Inspect and palpate joints for swelling, heat and redness
4.
Management:
 Consult MO who may advise:
 taking blood for viral serology (state which virus testing for on request form)
 non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) to relieve symptoms
5.
Follow up:
 Serology may need to be repeated in 14 days to confirm diagnosis
 See next MO clinic
 Prevention: Take precautions against being bitten by mosquitoes
6.
Referral / Consultation:
 Consult MO on all occasions of suspected Ross River Fever or Barmah Forest Virus
 See Queensland Health Fact Sheets
http://access.health.qld.gov.au/hid/InfectionsandParasites/ViralInfections/rossRiverVirus_fs.asp
http://access.health.qld.gov.au/hid/InfectionsandParasites/ViralInfections/barmahForestVirus_fs.asp