Mark Forsyth - 10/03/00 02:59:30
My Email:forsythm@optushome.com.au

Comments:
Well folks I consider myself recovered. Twas a long time coming but in reality was REALLY quick. There are others who have suffered from RRV for years and years. My boss' wife suffered for about 5 years. I couldn't hack that....! Anyway I'm back into the real(ish) world. My last relapse was last month (mid sept) and was very mild. Only slight pain in one elbow that persisted for a couple of days (stopped me from skydiving.....:( ) Along the way I discovered that the only way to deal with the fatigue is sleep...doh ! I was starting work at 7.30 am. and knocking off by about 3.00 pm. That meant that I could be home and in bed and asleep by 5.00 or 5.30 pm at the latest. I found that was the best (for me) way of dealing with it. The pain was something else. I'm a coffeee ADDICT and not being able to work a coffee pot was, well, er, not good. ( wrists, fingers, feet and elbows were the WORST) My doctor put me onto pot ( can't the spell the Ma....h name...:) ) as a form of pain relief. WORKS LIKE A CHARM. Helps as a sedative as well (when you can't sleep for pain). The only thing he (the doc) got stuck into me about was smoking it rather than cooking with it........ Must go. Ooroo mark F....(mozzies must DIE)

Patricia Payne - 04/12/00 22:51:57
My Email:patpayne @bigpond.com

Comments:
It is comforting to see research being done on RRV At the patient end you are told you have it full stop and to treat yourself symptomatically. No advice education or counselling was offered. My life and my family have been turned upside down and I seek as much info as I can on RRV so that I can steer my ecovery with informed knowledge of the disease. Thankyou!

Mark Forsyth - 04/11/00 04:50:58
My Email:forsythm@netspace.net.au

Comments:
Yesterday I was diagnosed as having recently contracted RRv. Now I;m trying to find out as much as I can. I NEED to know what I'm in for. ie. Can I continue to work, cycle, bshwalk etc. There seems to be no answers to the MANY questions a recently diagnos d patient may pose. The ONLY solace to be gained is that the mosquito concerned died an 'orrible ligering death. I know to the minute when this condition was introduced into my body. BASTARD MOSSI...!!!

Harriet Robinson - 04/04/00 05:32:40
My Email:cesmith.whit@m130.aone.net.au

Comments:
I was diagnosed with Ross River about 8 weeks ago. I am doing fine, however the biggest problem I had was getting information about the virus. My doctor basically said that there was nothing he could do apart from prescribing anti-inflammatories. Your web site has been a god send.

Jim Spotswood - 07/12/99 02:41:15
My Email:keyvision@acslink.aone.net.au

Comments:
Thanks for having such a great site available. I am currently still in the acute stage, and trying to cope with the disease while still running a business. Welcome to hear from any other sufferers Regards Jim

RESPONSE TO STEPHEN DOGGETT

Thank you for your comments, I have made changes to my site as a result of your comments where appropriate. However, this site was designed for those who have had rrv and their families so I have tried to write in plain english and not use technical t rms where ever possible.
In relation to some of your comments I said "can" result not "will". RRV is no longer just an Australian disease, I have heard from people who have been diagnosed who have never visited Australia. I mentioned "possibly" birds, there is now evidence to pr ve they are carriers. I am well aware that Ross River Fever (RRF) is not the correct term, however, it is often used in newspapers so it is important that people realise that this term is really RRV. Generally thought to be North Queensland virus, only s nce the disease has become notifiable has it been really recognised as being in other parts of Australia.
I need to correct my statement regarding other countries.
However, initially thought to be salt-marsh - I said initially, read the early literature.
Research - there are a number of states who undertake arbovirus surveillance and mosquito monitoring. That is really helpful to someone already suffering from Ross River and has been for years. When are we going to see some on the long-term effects, or e en studies showing it last for years? Also, when are we going to see some research done to assist in treating these people.

Comments:
Dear Madam, your web page contains many errors. To ensure factual information on Ross River is presented I have listed the corrections below. Yours sincerely Stephen Doggett Department of Medical Entomology University of Sydney & Westmead Hospital Westmead NSW 2145 "A mosquito bite can result in a person getting Ross River Virus (RRV)" Not totally correct, only a viraemic mosquito can pass on the virus. "Epidemic Polyarthritis caused by Ross River Virus is now one of the emerging diseases throughout the world". Incorrect, Ross River virus does not occur throughout the world, it is an Australian disease. "It is a virus which is carried to and from humans and animals (and possibly birds)". There is no evidence to suggest that birds are involved in the ecology of Ross River virus. "Ross River Virus (also commonly known as RRV and sometimes RRF - Ross River Fever) causes a disease known as Epidemic Polyarathritis [sic] (EPA)" The disease that results from infection with Ross River virus should never be known as Ross River Fever, as fever is only one component of the disease. Likewise, Ross River disease should not be called Epidemic Polyarthritis. This is a term that once was sed to cover disease caused by both Barmah Forest and Ross River virus; these are now recognised as clinically distinct diseases and the terms "Ross River disease" and "Barmah Forest disease" should be used. "Although RRV is generally thought by many to be a North Queensland Australia problem." Really? Ross River cases have been reported from all states of Australia virtually every year since the disease became notifiable. "EPA caused by RRV is now known to be throughout Australia, and in America (particularly the USA), Europe, Asia and the Pacific Island including New Zealand. The disease DOES NOT occur in America (particularly the USA), Europe, Asia or New Zealand. In the Pacific Islands the disease is not endemic, there was one epidemic as a result of probable importation through a viraemic traveller. "Initially, it was thought that only salt-marsh mosquitoes carried the virus. It is now known that fresh water species of mosquitoes also carry the virus." Totally untrue, it has long beeen known that freshwater species especially Culex annulirostris can transmit the virus. "A Laboratory diagnosis is required and it is a simple blood test." Ideally two blood test should be undertaken, one in the acute phase and one in the convalescent phase, and a fourfold rise in antibody levels will confirm the disease. "Barmar" It is "Barmah" Forest, and yes patients who are negative for RR should be tested for BF. In regards to Research, there are a number of state who undertake arbovirus surveillance and mosquito monitoring including WA, NT, VIC & NSW. For information on the NSW program see

Melanie - 03/02/99 12:46:03
My Email:lanie@well-com.net.au

Comments:
I was relieved to finally find a web-site that actually gave me information about RRV. I have beend diagnosed with this condition and am very interested in talking to anyone who has treatments that may work to help with the arthritic pain and the tiredne s. I am a busy person and am getting very frustrated about the fact that I can't do want I normally do! Is there a chat line or support group that you know about, as I also know other people from my area who would like to receive and exchange information. bye for now, Melanie

Deb - 02/26/99 22:11:51
My Email:DebFarnW@AOL.com

Comments:
A friend living in Queensland gave me the address for your page. This is the best information I have read on RRV. I believe my husband contracted RRV in Feb 1993 when we visited (and got married in) Queensland. The past 6 years have been difficult. It see s in our part of the world (S.West England) there is little knowledge about tropical diseased. We are still trying to obtain a firm diagnosis but the symptoms are very much along the lines you describe. As a wife who has often run out of patience, who has sometimes tended to believe that my husband could get better "if he wanted to", I can honestly say that having read you information, I will fight for a proper diagnosis and to be taken seriously by our GP.

Gloria - 02/16/99 07:19:43
My Email:Glo@southwest.com.au

Comments:
Thank you for some interesting information. I am a sufferer of RRV diagnosed in November 1998. My husband was diagnosed in 1996 and although that length oif time has elapsed he suffers relapses one which is happening at the moment. As I suffer from man c depression, this has been the icing on the cake (3.00pm and just got out of bed). My activities are limited because of the swelling in my feet and hands, lethargy and anti social feelings. I also have an enlarged liver and spleen either caused by the RV or the steroids I was prescribed. I am unable to take any medication for relief of my symptoms because I am anti-depressants and mixed together they do not agree with me. Two of my friends also suffer from RRV so any information you have would be gre tly appreciated. We all live in Falcon which is 10ks south of Mandurah in WA. Kind regards Ken & Gloria

Gloria - 02/16/99 07:13:01
My Email:Glo@southwest.com.au

Comments:
Thank you for some interesting information. I am a sufferer of RRV diagnosed in November 1998. My husband was diagnosed in 1996 and although that length oif time has elapsed he suffers relapses one which is happening at the moment. As I suffer from man c depression, this has been the icing on the cake (3.00pm and just got out of bed). My activities are limited because of the swelling in my feet and hands, lethargy and anti social feelings. I also have an enlarged liver and spleen either caused by the RV or the steroids I was prescribed. I am unable to take any medication for relief of my symptoms because I am anti-depressants and mixed together they do not agree with me. Two of my friends also suffer from RRV so any information you have would be gre tly appreciated. We all live in Falcon which is 10ks south of Mandurah in WA. Kind regards Ken & Gloria

doug bingham - 02/03/99 04:08:03
My Email:inday.stg@bigpond.com

Comments:
i was diagnosed with rrv mar/97 i have never felt the same since i'am 48 yrs old and feel like i'am78 home life and work have suffered thats why i found you. i'am looking for answers to!

Julie Powter - 02/02/99 09:35:04
My Email:rae@net-tech.com.au

Comments:


Julie Powter - 02/02/99 09:34:21

Comments:


Julie Powter - 02/02/99 09:31:28
My URL:http://www.rae@net-tech.com.au

Comments:


Joe Ellams - 01/28/99 11:03:07
My Email:jellams@ozemail.com.au

Comments:
Thanks for the info, I have sent a seperate e-mail Regards Joe Ellams

John Morton - 01/24/99 11:32:21
My Email:mortie@alphalink.com.au

Comments:
just a quick note to say thank you for the information and your efforts in getting this site together. It was the best site on RRV i found. It appears my wife has RRV but i do not understand why it is not me because i get bitten by mozzies 50 times to her 1 as i am outdoors and without protection. She finds massage a relief, especially the joints but the relief lasts for only 1/2 a day. Keep up this site and your good work. Bloody mozzies! John

Graeme Harvey - 01/12/99 03:54:45
My Email:graeme.harvey@xtra.co.nz

Comments:


Sandra Purcell - 01/10/99 14:18:09
My Email:jsp@perthpcug.org.au

Comments:
A very informative and user-friendly site. I have some symptoms and am waiting for test results.. I guess I'm doing a little research of my own. Your site has answered some questions I had, thank-you for that. I just hope my results come back negative

Ron Cranson - 01/09/99 13:24:58
My Email:r.crans@net-tech.com.au

Comments:
most informative and helpful documentation discovered to date .many thanks.

Cath - 01/08/99 10:40:18
My Email:chelsea@stealth.com.au

Comments:
RRV symptoms have reappeared following the birth of my third child, and are progressively getting more intense. Last time I found The Liver Cleansing Diet and accupressure, combined with large doses of high potency vitamin C helpful. Most commercially pre ared 'cures' are not recommended for nursing mothers.My main concern is that my children don't contract RRV.All the mosquito netting and citronella in the house cannot keep every miserable mossie away. I have heard that young children do not get RRV easil , and once infected experience few problems.Can this possibly be true? Fingers crossed!

Leah Haines - 01/08/99 02:12:58
My Email:news@telegraph.co.nz

Comments:
Hi, and thanks for the informative site. The mosquito which can carry the Ross River Virus has just today been found in Napier, New Zealand. I am a journalist researching the effects of the virus which is completely unheard of here. It seems to me that many sufferers are experiencing a lack of understanding from the medical profession about the symptoms of this virus. What, in your opinion should we as a city be wary of and what sort of information or action should we demand of our health authorities? Any contact would be greatly appreciated. Please e-mail me, in confidence if you wish. As soon as possible would be appreciated. Thanks

Jenny Prentice - 12/28/98 22:29:24
My Email:prento@hotkey.net.au

Comments:
I am now in my 5th week.. for the first 2 weeks I was virtualy bed bound in incredible pain, the next 1 1/2 weeks I could get up for an hour or so, but then would be back to square one for about 24 hours. I started an a high potentency tonic ASTRA FORTE m de by Greenridge (obtained at the chemist). I still have trouble walking etc, however, I feel this has helped me a great deal with my general energy levels !!!

Ian Kershaw - 12/27/98 01:15:18
My Email:scofa@vision.net.au

Comments:
Very helpful! Vitamins not vitamens! You may like to fix it.

Glen Jones - 12/24/98 23:24:47
My Email:jonesy5@ozemail.com.au

Comments:


Diana Hobbs - 12/10/98 05:54:28
My Email:hobbs@topend.com.au

Comments:
Having read your amazing literature on this subject and my husband, Trevor's, comments, I want to add my thanks. You've helped me to appreciate that some of the feelings I've experienced at different times, e.g. guilt and frustration are okay and nothing to be ashamed of. It's also helped me understand how important it is not to allow stress at home or, at least, try to minimise it. Well done, I'm sure you've helped many people.

Trevor Hobbs - 12/09/98 04:51:27
My Email:t.hobbs@dwe.csiro.au

Comments:
Congratulations on the page - it has lots of good information - far better than any doctor has offered me. I picked up RRV in March 1997 whilst at a conference near the Hawkesbury River, NSW. The first acute stage lasted about 2 weeks and a similar reoccu rence about 4 months later. Anti-inflammatory drugs (mainly Voltaren) took the edge of the aches and pains initially but are less effective now. The continual arthritic pains and lethargy has greatly influenced my lifestyle and the inability to do many of the "normal" things in life is often depressing. My wife Diana has been great throughout the "dark" times and has greatly improved her massaging skills. I wonder how long this damn thing is going to last, and whether we can get some focussed treatment for RRV, or if we are lucky, a cure?

Jenny Prentice - 12/04/98 20:47:49
My Email:prento@hotkey.net.au

Comments:
Thankyou for providing this site... it has helped me understand a lot more. I was always so active until this year (even though I was only doagnosed positive yesterday) I want my "life back" and your suggestions, I am sure will help me. My doctors only ad ice was, rest & look after yourself, (like I would recover in a few weeks). It is comforting to know that someone does understand, and there is a place to get tips to help ease the impact. Thankyou again.

Hilary Tims - 11/30/98 23:15:38
My Email:htims@octa4.net.au

Comments:
I found acupunture to be very hekpful. This was recommended by another Ross River victim. I had acute symptoms for about 6 months, then injury and two anaesthetics seemed to allow it to get a grip on me again. "Knocks me down" for two or three hours every day, not bad rest of day, although arthritis effect in wrists is bad.

Dot - 11/20/98 14:38:50
My Email:dotofoz@hotmail.com

Comments:
I live in Western Australia and work in Ross River Virus Central here (Mandurah WA). I contracted the virus originally over 10 years ago (probably when I was working in Northern Queensland) and at one time ended up in hospital for 2 weeks with such sever polyarthralgia I couldn't even stand up, move my fingers..anything. It did take a long time to "recover" from and I had hoped that was the last I would ever see of this disease..but sadly I had a recurrence about 5 years ago...and now after the stresses of an overseas holiday (and six weeks of thinking "I am feeling very run down"... aching joints, depression and total lethargy - I suspect I am on the verge of another relapse (oh well guess it's time for more tests).

Karen Irvine - 11/05/98 23:22:09
My Email:cobarweekly@cobarweekly.com.au

Comments:
My daughter has Ross River fever. The information provided has been most helpful. Thank you.

Imogen Fountain - 10/16/98 11:12:13
My Email:jbf1@york.ac.uk

Comments:
I contracted RRV in Dec 1996 after being bitten badly by mosquitos in the south west of Western Australia in a place called Denmark. On my return to the UK a week after the illness showed itslef in the New Year I had to explain to my doctor what it was th t I had. Almost two years later I am still suffering the effects of this disease. It is the fatigue that has caused me the most problems causing a great deal of frustration and depression. However the joint pains have not disappeared either. They tend to nly affect my wrists and hands now whereas initially I could hardly walk. The fatigue usually feels like I have been run over by a bus! I think I have made mistakes while I have had this disease and not rested enough, but I find it difficult to give up ev rything altogether. I have avoided alcohol for nearly two years and have tried both herbal and homeopathic remedies. There does seem to be some slight improvement but it is not as fast as I would like. If I knew when this would end it would help a lot! I have found it difficult with friends and family because unless you've ever had something like this it is impossible to understand how one feels and they can't understand how you can 'still be ill'! It helps to know other people feel as I do. I have been l oking for some medium where I can talk to fellow sufferers for nearly two years. I welcome this site, keep up the good work and I hope we all recover soon.

Cathy Szokolay - 10/13/98 02:50:12
My Email:Cathy.Szokolay@qed.qld.gov.au

Comments:
A great site! I wish this had been around, when i was first diagnosed a year ago. Finding information has been difficult. I have found acupuncture and chinese herbs have really helped and definitely got me through the first 6 months. Although I think my symptoms have been less severe than some of those d scribed it hasn't lessened the impact on my life. I continue to try and eat as healthily and organically as possible this also seems to have a beneficial effect.

Mark Kern - 10/02/98 21:50:45
My Email:mark_kern@juno.com

Comments:
Reliv Now coupled with Reliv Arthraffect would be a recommended "nutriceutical" approach to relief. No shortage of supply as suggested in one comment. Email me if interested in obtaining.

Bruce Bedford - 09/08/98 09:59:43
My Email:bedfordp@winshop.com.au

Comments:
Good job, I hope that you get comments from other parts of the world about RRV

Mark P. Isbister - 09/08/98 02:04:00
My URL:http://www.ctel.net/isbister
My Email:isbister@ctel.net

Comments:
Hi, The page is magnificient. So professional. If only a cure would be found! I wonder if drugs that treat some of the symtoms could lead to a cure? I know Immunex, a US biotech company is coming out with a powerful arithis drug that attacks the root of t e inflamation, etc. I will have to ask my doctor if he has heard of cases in Maine, since we have a lot of mosquitos. See you on regular email...(I shouldn't write so much here? Guest book and such, eh?) -Mark