Recent Ross River Virus notifications for the Midwest Murchison region have prompted the Department of Health to urge residents to take extra care against mosquito bites.

 “There have already been three cases of Ross River virus infections in the local region whereas for the South-West region numerous cases have been reported. ”

 “The recent cyclonic rainfall and flooding in northern and inland regions has resulted in an increase in mosquitoes and therefore an expansion of the risk area for contracting mosquito borne diseases like Ross River virus,” Public Health Nurse, Donna Ennis said.

 Donna Ennis said there was no cure or vaccine for Ross River or Barmah Forest viruses, so it was important people take precautions to avoid mosquito bites in areas where these viruses were active.

 ”Ross River and Barmah Forest viruses cause a non-fatal but potentially debilitating disease, with symptoms including painful or swollen joints, rash, muscle aches, fever, headache and chronic fatigue,” Donna Ennis said.

 Mosquito bites can be avoided by taking a few simple steps, such as:

• avoiding outdoor exposure around dusk and at night in areas where mosquitoes are active;
• ensuring insect screens are installed and completely mosquito-proof and using mosquito nets and mosquito-proof tents;
• wearing protective personal repellent containing diethyl toluamide (DEET) or picaridin, as well as protective clothing when outdoors. The most effective and long-lasting formulations are lotions or gels. Most natural or organic repellents are not as effective as DEET or picaridin; and
• ensuring infants and children are adequately protected against mosquito bites, preferably with suitable clothing, bed nets or other forms of insect screening.

Photographic Opportunity:  Environmental Health Officer (EHO) inspecting the river for mosquitoes.  Greenough EHO contact – Trevor Brandy 99210529.  Possibility for editorial on Mosquito lifecycle with photo or ‘lavaciding’ procedure by EHO to kill mosquito lava.