An outbreak of a mosquito-borne virus in Tasmania has prompted health authorities to re-issue a warning for residents and travellers on the state's east coast.
Two more cases of the Barmah Forest virus have been confirmed, after three were confirmed earlier in March.
"Although a small number of cases have been notified in Tasmania in the past - these are the first cases where we are confident they have been acquired in Tasmania, rather than interstate," Public Health Services Clinical Director Dr Faline Howes said on Thursday.
"The fact that we are seeing a number of cases of this virus is significant and we'd obviously like to understand more."
Two more potential cases are being investigated by health authorities.
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The Barmah Forest virus is similar but less severe than Ross River virus and symptoms including joint pain, tiredness, headaches and muscle pain can last for months.
Many people, however, show no symptoms.
Health authorities have reminded people on Tasmania's east coast to protect themselves against mosquito bites, after issuing the same warning a few weeks ago.
Mosquito traps will be set up this weekend on the state's east coast to try and confirm the presence of the mosquito species known to carry the virus
