Ross River
virus (RRV) is a virus spread by blood-sucking insects affecting mostly people in rural Australia. According to the New South Wales Department of Health, infection with RRV can lead to flu-like symptoms as well as joint pain. There are number of steps individuals can take to prevent themselves from contracting RRV, and, although there are no specific treatments, infection with Ross River has no long-lasting consequences.
Types
Ross River virus is an arbovirus, meaning that it is transmitted through bites from blood-sucking insects, mosquitoes in this case. According to David Harley, et al., of the Australian Centre for International and Tropical Health and Nutrition at the University of Queensland Medical School, infection with RRV leads to arthritis or pain in several peripheral nerves, along with possible fever and rash. The New South Wales Department of Health reports that infected persons may also experience chills and malaise, a general feeling of being unwell; it is also reported that rash generally clears up in a week or a little more.
Identification
Infection with RRV is detected through blood tests that screen for the presence of antibodies to the virus. According to the New South Wales Department of Health, this test may be repeated 2 weeks after initial testing in order to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
No treatment can target RRV specifically, and only symptoms can be alleviated. According to Communicable Disease Control of Victoria, Australia, this includes drugs used in the treatment of rheumatoid conditions to relieve pain and swelling in joints.
Prevention
According to the New South Wales Department of Health, the most important prevention methods for infection with RRV are those that allow people to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. These include avoiding peak mosquito times (late afternoon and sunset), wearing loose and lightly colored clothing, using insect repellents (including spraying rooms before sleeping) and insect screens, and not keeping open containers of water around the house (where mosquitoes might breed).
Complications
There are no long-lasting effects of infection with RRV. However, Communicable Disease Control of Victoria reports that some vigorous activity may make symptoms worse, and that it is important to remain active so that joints do not become stiff as the infection progresses.
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