For those in northern Queensland, what has been of concern in recent
times is the recent outbreak of the mosquito-borne dengue fever virus.
Believed to have arrived most recently in Cairns from a traveler coming from
Indonesia, there have thus far been 277 confirmed cases of the disease in
Cairns and a further 47 in Townsville.
Worldwide, there are believed to be 50-100 million infections annually killing
about 30,000 people, a large proportion of whom are children.
Since observing enthusiasts in northern Queensland are, by definition, outdoors at night,
the risk of getting bitten by a mosquito are undoubtedly higher compared to those
who remain indoors.
It therefore comes as a sign of hope that the first human trials of a dengue fever
vaccine are about to start in the United States. As reported by ABC news,
developed in Hawaii, a Perth-based drug company has also been working with
the scientists. The hope is the vaccine will be available in the next two to four years.
ABC story here -
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2...09/2486005.htm
In the meantime, to our observing friends in the tropical north, take care and
avoid getting bitten!
Best Regards
Gary Kopff
Mt. Kuring-Gai