An outbreak of Ross River Virus in the south of Australia has totalled 60 cases on the west coast, Kangaroo Island and near Lake Albert. Ross River Virus is a febrile viral disease characterised by arthritis, primarily in the wrist, knee, ankle and small joints of the extremities, lasting from days to months. The onset of arthritis is often followed by a rash which affects the trunk and limbs and resolves within 7-10 days. A small percentage of people will take more than a year fully to recover. Ross River Virus is transmitted by mosquitoes that bite during the day and the night. Travellers should take extra measures to avoid mosquito bites while in the area. Using repellents on exposed skin is recommended. The state government has launched an awareness campaign.

• To obtain a health brief tailored to your journey call the MASTA Travellers Health Line on 0906 8 224 100 (calls charged at 60p/min). For general travel health advice visit the website at www.masta.org.