If you’re one of the many Aussies who love to hitch up the caravan and head north for a bit of sun and adventure, there’s a new warning you can’t afford to ignore.

As the 'grey nomad' season kicks into high gear and thousands of over-60s hit the road, health authorities are sounding the alarm about a deadly threat that’s all too easy to overlook.


This urgent message comes in the wake of a heartbreaking loss. Peter Blackaby, a keen traveller and regular visitor to the Kimberley, Pilbara, and Gascoyne regions, tragically lost his life to Murray Valley encephalitis (MVE) in 2023.

His wife, Sonia, is now on a mission to make sure no other family has to endure the same pain.

'Not enough people are aware of the severity of the viruses that mozzies carry,' Sonia shared.


'Most people have never even heard of MVE. We hadn’t. Awareness is the only way to start imprinting the message with people: Prevent bites. It’s the only way to protect yourself.'

MVE is a rare but potentially fatal virus carried by mosquitoes. While most people infected may not show symptoms, those who do can experience severe neurological complications, and in some cases, it can be deadly.

Since 2023, Western Australia has recorded 12 cases of MVE, resulting in five deaths—a sobering statistic that highlights the seriousness of the risk.


The north of Australia is a magnet for retirees and adventure-seekers during the winter months, thanks to its warm weather and stunning scenery.

But these regions—especially the Kimberley, Pilbara, and Gascoyne—are also hotspots for mosquito activity, particularly after wet seasons or unusual weather patterns.

Older Australians are considered particularly vulnerable, not just because of age but also because many spend extended periods outdoors, often camping or caravanning in remote areas where medical help may not be close at hand.

In response to this growing threat, Western Australia Health has ramped up its 'Fight the Bite' campaign.

As part of a new pilot program, free mosquito repellent dispensers are being rolled out across high-risk areas.

Eligible community organisations—think caravan parks, sporting clubs, outdoor cinemas, and alfresco venues—can now apply for these dispensers to help protect locals and travellers alike.

The timing is no accident. The initiative coincides with the annual migration of grey nomads heading north, and a state-wide rollout is planned for 2026 if the trial proves successful.

While winter is usually a lower-risk period for mosquito-borne viruses, 2025 has been anything but typical.

Health authorities have detected ongoing MVE activity through their mosquito and sentinel chicken surveillance programs, prompting renewed calls for vigilance.

A WA Health spokesperson explained, 'Whilst rare, infection can cause a severe, potentially fatal, disease.

Individuals who survive are often left with severe neurological deficits or disability.'

So, what can you do to stay safe on your travels? Here are some top tips from the experts:

• Cover-Up: Wear long, loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing to reduce the chance of being bitten.
• Use Repellent: Apply an effective insect repellent to all exposed skin, especially at dawn and dusk when mozzies are most active.
• Avoid Mozzie Hotspots: Steer clear of areas with high mosquito numbers, such as wetlands and stagnant water.
• Stay Informed: Check local health alerts and follow advice from authorities, especially if you’re travelling to high-risk regions.
• Make Repellent Accessible: If you’re part of a community group or run a business in a high-risk area, consider applying for a free repellent dispenser to help protect everyone.

WA Health is also encouraging local governments and larger businesses to make insect repellent readily available to the public and employees in high-risk locations. It’s a simple step that could save lives.

Sonia Blackaby’s message is clear and heartfelt: 'Prevent bites—it’s the only way.' By sharing her family’s story, she hopes to spare others from similar heartbreak.
Have you ever had a close call with mozzies while travelling? Do you have your tips for keeping the bites at bay? We’d love to hear your stories and advice—share your thoughts in the comments below.

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