Two deaths from a mosquito-borne virus in an outback town have prompted a warning for people to cover up and use insect repellent.
Northern Territory health authorities on Tuesday confirmed two people had died from Murray Valley encephalitis, a rare virus that can be potentially fatal after a person is bitten by an infected mosquito.
The deaths occurred in Alice Springs in April and May respectively, an NT Health spokesperson said.
Transmission of the virus in the NT is most frequent between February and June, with most cases occurring between March and May.
Significant rainfall this year has increased the risk.
Health authorities undertake mosquito surveillance and testing across the Top End for the virus from January to June each year.
It was detected on two occasions around Darwin, the spokesperson said in a statement.
Mosquito collection and testing is also being undertaken in central Australia.
Symptoms of the virus include severe headache, fever, nausea and vomiting, muscle aches, drowsiness, confusion and seizures.
Water sources, including isolated pools, provide ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes which are most active after sundown, at night and early in the morning.
NT Health advises people to apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus, to wear light-coloured protective clothing and to cover their feet.
They should also ensure tents are mosquito proof, avoid mosquito-prone areas, especially after sundown, and use mosquito coils or mosquito lanterns for patios and verandas.
During a 2023 outbreak, eight cases were recorded, including two deaths and two cases resulting in severe neurological impairment.
