Most grey nomads are aware of the irritation and the illness that can be caused by mosquito bites, but a surge in the number of Ross River virus cases in Victoria has led to new warnings being issued.
Heavy rains in the state has seen mozzie populations surge, and hundreds of people have been diagnosed with the debilitating virus.
Victoria’s Chief Health Officer, Professor Charles Guest said about 314 people had been officially diagnosed with Ross River virus in Victoria during the year to December 29 – a nearly 50% jump from the previous year.
Locals and travllers are being urged to take extra care to protect themselves against mosquito bites, particularly outside of Melbourne where the insects are more likely to be carrying the disease.
Professor Guest told the Sydney Morning Herald that’s the Ross River virus had been detected in mosquitoes around Mildura, Moira and Barmah Forest in the north of Victoria, an early indication of increased risk for people this summer.
“The best protection from these diseases is to avoid mosquito bites – protective measures include regularly using mosquito repellent containing picaridin or DEET, wearing loose fitting clothing when outside and ensuring accommodation is mosquito proof,” Professor Guest said in a health warning.
People bitten by infected mosquitoes usually fall ill within three weeks. Symptoms include joint inflammation and pain, particularly in small joints such as the wrists, fingers and toes.
The Sydney Morning Herald reports that other signs include fatigue; enlargement of lymph nodes, especially in the groin or armpit; muscle aches; a rash; and a feeling of ‘pins and needles’ or sensitivity on the soles of one’s feet and palms of one’s hands.
While most people recover, some can have intermittent symptoms for more than a year. There is no treatment, other than medicines to relieve symptoms.
· Have you noticed more mozzies around this year? How do you protect yourself from the buzzing menace? Comment below.
