Territorians and visitors are urged to take protection against Murray Valley encephalitis (MVE), following two deaths in Alice Springs from the virus in April and May this year.
MVE is a rare but serious and potentially fatal mosquito-borne disease that can be transmitted after being bitten by a mosquito with the MVE virus.
MVE virus has been detected in the Northern Territory, with transmission most frequent between February and June, and most cases occurring between March and May.
As the Territory experienced significant rainfall this year, the risk area for MVE has been expanded to include all regions.
NT Health undertakes mosquito surveillance and testing across the Top End in partnership with Berrimah Veterinary Laboratories for the MVE virus from January to June each year. Since January, the MVE virus has been detected on two occasions in mosquitoes collected around Darwin.
Mosquito collection and testing is also being undertaken in Central Australia.
Symptoms of MVE include severe headache, fever, nausea and vomiting, muscle aches, drowsiness, confusion and seizures. If you experience symptoms, see your doctor immediately.
Mosquito numbers are expected to remain high in the Top End, Big Rivers, Greater Darwin and East Arnhem regions until the end of July as water sources, including isolated pools, continue to provide ideal breeding conditions.
In Central Australia and the Barkly regions, mosquito numbers are expected to decrease to very low levels due to cold overnight temperatures.
Mosquitoes are most active after sundown, at night and early in the morning.
To protect against MVE, people should:
Apply insect repellents that contain DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus (PMD)Wear light coloured protective clothing, and cover your feetEnsure that tents are mosquito proof when campingEnsure infants and children are adequately protectedAvoid mosquito prone areas, especially after sundownUse mosquito coils, or mosquito lanterns using insecticide treated pads for patios and verandas
Since MVE surveillance began in 1974, 48 cases have been recorded in the NT, including the two fatal cases reported in Central Australia recently.
During the 2023 MVE outbreak, eight cases were recorded, including two deaths and two cases resulting in severe neurological impairment.
NT Health carried out mosquito control activities across 35 hectares of breeding habitat in the Leanyer and Mickett swamps in late April 2026, with further control efforts scheduled for this week.
