Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) Public Health Unit is advising residents and visitors in the area to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
Spray up, cover up, screen up
Two mosquito-borne viruses - Ross River virus and Barmah Forest virus - were detected in recent mosquito samples collected in traps in the Griffith region.
Tony Burns, MLHD's Senior Environmental Health Officer, said the early discovery in the season is unusual. It is a timely reminder to the community to take action to prevent mosquito bites.
“We have found local mosquito numbers are up to 10 times greater than usual in some areas. We have discovered the Ross River virus and Barmah Forest virus. This means people may be at a higher risk of infection,” Mr Burns said.
“Symptoms of the Ross River Virus and Barmah Forest Virus are similar – muscle pain, rash, fever, headache, joint swelling, and tiredness or weakness.
There is no specific treatment available for Ross River virus or Barmah Forest virus infection. Your doctor will be able to recommend how to treat the symptoms.”
The Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is another risk this mosquito season, which can cause more severe illness. A safe and effective vaccine is available for eligible groups from a GP or pharmacist.
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