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Ross River fever
ICD-10 Codes
Related ICD-10:
Description
Ross River fever, also known as Ross River virus infection or epidemic polyarthritis, is a mosquito-borne infectious disease caused by the Ross River virus.
Common symptoms:
- Fever
- Rash
- Joint pains and swelling (polyarthritis)
- Fatigue
- Aching tendons
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Headache, especially behind the eyes
These symptoms can occur within 7 to 9 days after an infected mosquito bite, but can range from 3 to 21 days. In some cases, people may not experience any symptoms at all.
Characteristics:
- The illness is typically characterized by an influenza-like illness and joint pain.
- The virus is endemic to Australia, Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Samoa, the Cook Islands, New Caledonia, and several other islands in the South Pacific.
- Ross River fever is the most common mosquito-borne disease in Australia.
Important note:
- Death from Ross River fever has never been reported.
- There are no vaccines to prevent or medicines to treat Ross River fever. However, reducing the risk of infection by preventing mosquito bites can help minimize the risk of contracting the disease.
References:
[1] Symptoms (context 1) [2] Ross River virus belongs to a group of viruses called alphaviruses (context 2) [3] Clinical features (context 14)
Additional Characteristics
- Fever
- Rash
- Fatigue
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Joint pains and swelling (polyarthritis)
- Aching tendons
- Headache, especially behind the eyes
Signs and Symptoms
Ross River fever, also known as Ross River virus infection, is a viral disease caused by the Ross River virus. The symptoms of this disease can vary from person to person, but some common signs and symptoms include:
- Fever: A high temperature, which can be accompanied by chills [2].
- Muscle and joint pain: Pain in the joints, particularly in the ankles, elbows, knees, and other joints, is a common symptom of Ross River fever. In fact, over 95% of patients experience this symptom [4].
- Rash: A raised red rash on the body, arms, or legs can also be present [2].
- Fatigue: Feeling tired or exhausted is another common symptom of Ross River fever, affecting around 90% of patients [4].
- Headache: Some people may experience headaches, especially behind the eyes [3].
- Swollen lymph nodes: Swelling in the lymph nodes can also occur.
- Aching tendons: Tenderness or pain in the tendons can be a symptom of Ross River fever.
It's worth noting that death from Ross River fever has never been reported. However, there are no vaccines available to prevent this disease [5].
Diagnostic Tests
Diagnostic Tests for Ross River Fever
Ross River fever, also known as Ross River virus disease, can be diagnosed through various diagnostic tests. Here are some of the key tests used to diagnose this condition:
- Blood tests: Blood tests can reveal if a person has been infected with Ross River virus recently or in the past. These tests can detect the presence of antibodies against the virus in the blood.
- Incubation period: The incubation period, which is the time between becoming infected and developing symptoms, typically ranges from 3 to 21 days, with an average of 7-9 days.
- Infectious period: The infectious period, during which an infected person can infect others, is not well-defined but is believed to be around 1-2 weeks.
Diagnostic Tests Used
The following diagnostic tests are used to diagnose Ross River fever:
- Ross River serological tests: These tests are important tools in diagnosing Ross River virus infection in individuals who present with symptoms suggestive of the disease.
- Blood tests for antibodies: Blood tests can detect the presence of antibodies against the Ross River virus, which indicates a recent or past infection.
Importance of Accurate Diagnosis
Accurate diagnosis is crucial to prevent misdiagnosis and ensure that patients receive appropriate treatment. Misdiagnosis can lead to delayed treatment, which can worsen symptoms and prolong recovery time.
- Exclusion of other illnesses: Other illnesses with similar symptoms may need to be excluded before diagnosing Ross River fever.
- Incubation period: The incubation period is an important factor in diagnosing Ross River fever, as it helps determine the timing of the infection.
References
- [3] - Lab Tests Online Australasia. Ross River fever: Tests. Alexandria, NSW: Lab Tests Online Australasia, 2019.
- [8] - Ross River serological tests are important tools in diagnosing Ross River virus infection in individuals who present with symptoms suggestive of the disease.
- [5] - Diagnosis is made by a blood test. Other illnesses with similar symptoms may need to be excluded.
Note: The numbers in square brackets refer to the context numbers provided, which are used as citations for the information presented.
Additional Diagnostic Tests
- Blood tests
- Ross River serological tests
- Blood tests for antibodies
Treatment
Current Treatment Options for Ross River Fever
Ross River fever, caused by the Ross River virus, is a mosquito-borne illness that can cause symptoms such as swollen or painful joints, fever, rash, and fatigue. While there is no specific antiviral treatment available for Ross River virus infection, various medications can be used to manage its symptoms.
- Pain relief medication: Over-the-counter pain relief medication, such as paracetamol (acetaminophen), may be used to treat pain and fever [3][7].
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, can also be used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain [7][8].
- Corticosteroids: However, attempts to treat Ross River virus with corticosteroids have been ineffective, and researchers do not recommend using these medications [6].
It's essential to note that there is currently no vaccine available to prevent Ross River fever infection. If you suspect you have contracted the virus, it's crucial to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Research into New Treatments
Researchers are actively exploring new treatments for Ross River fever. A clinical trial underway in Brisbane is testing a potential treatment for the disease [4]. Additionally, scientists at Griffith University have discovered a potential new therapeutic treatment against mosquito-borne alphavirus infections, including Ross River Virus [13].
While these developments hold promise, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for accurate and up-to-date information on treating Ross River fever.
References:
[3] Context 4 [6] Context 6 [7] Context 7 [8] Context 8
💊 Drug information is sourced from ChEBI (Chemical Entities of Biological Interest) database. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any medication. Click on any medication name for detailed information.
Differential Diagnosis
Ross River fever, also known as Ross River virus disease, has a differential diagnosis that includes other arthritogenic alphaviruses and various infectious or autoimmune arthritides.
- Other arthritogenic alphaviruses:
- Barmah Forest virus infection: This is typically milder and associated with polyarthralgia more so than Ross River fever [9].
- Chikungunya virus disease: Although less common, it can present with similar symptoms such as joint inflammation and pain.
- Infectious causes:
- Lyme disease: A bacterial infection that can cause arthritis and other systemic symptoms.
- Septic arthritis: A condition where bacteria infect the joints, leading to inflammation and pain.
- Autoimmune arthritides:
- Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune disorder that causes chronic joint inflammation and pain.
- Psoriatic arthritis: A type of arthritis associated with psoriasis, a skin condition.
It's worth noting that the differential diagnosis will vary depending on the travel destination of the patient [1]. In travelers to Australia, for example, it might include other arthritogenic alphaviruses such as Barmah Forest virus infection.
Additional Differential Diagnoses
- Chikungunya virus disease
- Infectious causes
- Other arthritogenic alphaviruses
- Barmah Forest virus infection
- Sepsis arthritis
- Autoimmune arthritides
- Lyme disease
- rheumatoid arthritis
- psoriatic arthritis
Additional Information
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It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with questions about your medical condition.