Several killer viruses lurking in mosquitoes and ticks around SA

An alert has been issued for a mosquito-borne virus capable of killing humans and animals, as SA’s hot and wet summer creates a breeding ground for infection.

A mosquito-borne virus capable of killing humans and animals has potentially found its way into South Australia – the latest in a string of infections basking in our wet and warm summer.

An alert was issued after symptoms consistent with West Nile Virus-Kunjin (WNV/KNV) strain were shown by a horse in the Adelaide Hills.

The disease, which has no treatment or vaccine, is transmitted by mosquitoes and can cause serious disease or death.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) said initial testing could not confirm whether the infection was recent or not.

PIRSA are warning that this summer’s warm conditions present an ideal climate for the disease – and other mosquito-borne viruses – to spread, and warn horse owners that the Adelaide Hills case may not be isolated.

The majority of WNV/KNV infections cause slight or mild symptoms, and occasionally cause a severe neurological disease in horses.

Symptoms include a wobbly gait, blindness, facial paralysis, limb weakness or paralysis and an altered mental state.

If a horse is showing symptoms, a vet should be contacted immediately.

Mosquitoes can spread the virus between animals and humans.

It is the latest in a string of viruses – most carried by mosquitoes – that have made their way into the state this summer.

Ross River virus, another killer disease carried by mosquitoes, has been recorded 21 times in SA this year.

It can cause fever, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes and fatigue, among other symptoms that have varying severities depending on age.

SA Health issued a warning last month, after a potentially deadly Murray Valley Encephalitis Virus and Kunjin virus was detected among chickens at Meningie.

A dog-killing tick was also discovered in SA for the first time last week.

The tick carries ehrlichiosis, a disease that, in dogs, causes abnormal bleeding, lethargy, loss of appetite, pain, weight loss, and can lead to death.

The SA prompted calls for dog owners to be hyper-vigilant.

South Australian chief veterinary officer Mary Carr said though the ticks were unlikely to make their way to metropolitan areas, dog owners should keep an eye on their pets.

“The best way to prevent your dogs from this disease is by talking to your vet about either maintaining or starting a tick preventive program,” Dr Carr said.

To protect against diseases carried by mosquitoes, horse owners should consider mosquito treatment options and removal of breeding areas such as pot plants or water tanks.

Horses can also be rugged in the evening and mornings and use an insecticide to help reduce bites.