FOLLOWING the first detection of Ross River virus in mosquitoes in the Peel region, the Department of Health has reminded people to take precautions.
Department of Health Acting Medical Entomologist, Dr Andrew Jardine said although the virus was detected in mosquitoes from the Peel region, it was likely to be more widespread and for residents and travellers to the south west of the state to try to avoid getting mosquito bites over the coming months.
“It is likely that at this time of year Ross River Virus would be active across most of the south-west,” Dr Jardine said.
“Mosquito management is being undertaken by local government authorities in collaboration with the Department of Health in areas with a recognised risk of RRV and Barmah Forest virus (BFV) infection.
“However, it is not realistic to rely on mosquito management programs alone to control mosquitoes – people also need to take their own precautions to avoid mosquito bites."
Symptoms of Ross River virus include painful or swollen joints, sore muscles, skin rashes, fever, fatigue and headaches, all of which can last for weeks or months,
The only way to properly diagnose the viruses is by having a specific blood test and there is no cure for the virus so it’s important that people take care to prevent being bitten by mosquitoes.
People living or travelling in the Peel and south west regions do not need to change their travel plans but should take extra precautions including:
- avoiding outdoor exposure particularly around dawn and dusk (and the first few hours after dark);
- wearing protective (long, loose-fitting, light coloured) clothing when outdoors;
- applying a personal repellent containing 20 per cent diethyl toluamide (DEET) or picaridin to exposed skin or clothing. The most effective and long-lasting formulations are lotions or gels. Natural or organic repellents may not be as effective as DEET or picaridin, or may need to be reapplied more frequently;
- ensuring insect screens are installed and in good condition. The use of bed nets will offer further protection;
- using mosquito nets or mosquito-proof tents when camping or sleeping outdoors; and
- ensuring infants and children are adequately protected against mosquito bites, preferably with suitable clothing, bed nets or other forms of insect screening.
With summer approaching, it is also a timely reminder for residents to minimise mosquito breeding around the home by taking some simple steps to remove or modify breeding sites.
This includes:
- dispose of all containers which hold water;
- stock ornamental ponds with fish and keep vegetation away from the water’s edge;
- keep swimming pools well chlorinated, filtered and free of dead leaves;
- fill or drain depressions in the ground that hold water;
- fit mosquito proof covers to vent pipes on septic tank systems. Seal all gaps around the lid and ensure leach drains are completely covered;
- screen rainwater tanks with insect proof mesh, including inlet, overflow and inspection ports;
- ensure guttering does not hold water;
- empty pot plant drip trays once a week or fill them with sand; and
- empty and clean animal and pet drinking water bowls once a week.
