Director of Medical Entomology Nina Kurucz explained that there is evidence of Kunjin virus activity from flavivirus surveillance, with the virus able to transmit by mosquitoes.

Ms Kurucz urged people to take precautions against mosquito bites during outdoor activities with the Easter long weekend approaching. 

Mosquitoes that are mainly active after sundown and in the early morning transmit the Kunjin virus.

The recent detection of Murray Valley encephalitis (MVE) virus in Katherine, and the detection of Kunjin virus in Darwin rural indicate widespread virus activity early in the season.

The high-risk period for both MVE and Kunjin virus is from February to the end of June.

While current mosquito numbers are relatively low, numbers are expected to increase when breeding sites start to dry up and mosquito larval predators are unable to access the larvae. The mosquitoes can occur in pest numbers within a few kilometres of their breeding sites. They breed in grassy depressions filled with water, seasonal lagoons and wetlands. 

“To avoid mosquito borne disease, use personal mosquito protection and avoid being outdoors in or close to wetland areas or places where mosquitoes are active, especially after sunset, said Ms Kurucz.

Murray Valley encephalitis and Kunjin virus disease are rare, but MVE can potentially be fatal.

The symptoms can include severe headache, high fever, drowsiness, tremor and seizures (especially in young children).   In some cases, the disease can progress to delirium, coma, permanent brain damage or death.

To minimise the chance of being bitten by mosquitoes, people should: