Ross River virus is also found in Papua, New Guinea, areas of Indonesia and the Western Pacific islands. Symptoms Incubation of the disease following a bite of an infected mosquito varies from 3 days to 3 weeks with symptoms developing within 7 to 14 days. Symptoms of RRV infection vary person to person, but commonly include painful and swollen joints, sore muscles, aching tendons, skin rash, fever, fatigue, headache and swollen lymph nodes. Less common symptoms include sore eyes, sore throat, nausea and tingling in the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. Some individuals will experience reoccurring symptoms, especially joint pain, fatigue, lethargy and depression that may continue for up to 1 year following infection.
Symptoms disappear eventually and leave few or no after-effects.
Most people who have been exposed to RRV are immune for life. There is no vaccine and no specific treatment for Ross River virus infection, but treatment of symptoms can reduce discomfort. Medical treatment is aimed at easing joint pains and swelling, and minimizing fatigue and lethargy. As there is no vaccine that protects against the Ross River virus, using personal protective measures to prevent being bitten by an infected mosquito remains the only means to reduce the risk of exposure. Recommendations Health Canada strongly recommends that travellers consult their private physician or a travel medicine practitioner to discuss their individual risk of exposure to Ross River virus infection.