Arbovirus detection prompts health warning to avoid mosquitoes
Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) is urging residents and visitors to the region to take extra precautions and protect themselves against mosquitoes following a detection of Ross River viruses in mosquitoes at Moama. Mosquito numbers have been high across the region.
Acting Director of Public Health, Alison Nikitas said that the State’s arbovirus monitoring program had recently detected an arboviral isolate of Ross River virus. “It is unusual to see arboviruses detected in mosquitoes this early in the season,” Ms Nikitas said. “While we still have plenty of water lying around after the floods and the weather stays warm, mosquitoes will continue to breed and may be carrying Ross River virus, and possibly even other viruses such as Barmah Forest virus and the more serious viruses such as Kunjin and Murray Valley Encephalitis.
“These infections can cause symptoms including tiredness, rash, fever, and sore and swollen joints. The symptoms usually resolve after several days, but some people may experience these symptoms for weeks or even months. “There is no specific treatment for these viruses. The best way to avoid infection is to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.”
Simple steps to avoid mosquito bites include:
• Having a look around your house and yard to ensure there are no areas where mosquitoes can breed – such as kids’ toys, water trays under pot plants, rubbish and anything else that can hold a small amount of water
• Cover up as much as possible when outside with light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing and covered footwear
• Use an effective repellent* on all exposed skin andre-apply repellent within a few hours as protection wears off from perspiration, particularly on hot nights –Light mosquito coils or use vaporising mats indoors(devices that use light to attract and electrocute insects are not effective)
• Cover all windows, doors, vents and other entrances with insect screens and make sure tent screens are zipped closed at all times
• Use a knock-down spray in tents or bedrooms about 20 minutes before going to bed.
* The best mosquito repellents contain Diethyl Toluamide (DEET) or Picaridin. The stronger the concentration of an insect repellent, the less frequently it will need to be applied to stop mosquito bites. Repellents containing low concentrations of DEET or Picaridin provide shorter periods of protection so it’s important to read the product information. Topical repellents are not recommended for use on children under three months of age. Use of physical barriers such as netting of prams, cots and play areas is preferred. Repellents containing less than 10 per cent DEET or Picaridin are safe for older children if applied according instructions.
Posted by Berrigan Shire Council
15 November 2016
