Climate Change, Ross River Virus and Biodiversity

Abstract

Infection with the Australian Ross River virus (RRV) results in rash, fever and rheumatic symptoms lasting several weeks, with epidemics strongly influenced by climatic variables that impact mosquito biology. The disease can be contextualised in terms of broader issues of resource overutilisation that leads to the degradation of ecosystems, with biodiversity loss potentially contributing to the emergence of the disease. The possible ecological linkage mechanisms between biodiversity loss and RRV infection are discussed and research needs in the area are highlighted.