Australians are being warned of an increased risk of disease as mosquitoes increase over the Christmas and summer holiday period.
Doctors are urging people to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites as they could contract the deadly Ross River virus and Japanese encephalitis virus.
Queensland Chief Health Officer Dr Heidi Carroll said the recent wet weather in that state has created perfect conditions for mosquito breeding, meaning numbers will increase.
“Mosquito numbers always increase significantly in hot, humid climates, and Queenslanders should be especially vigilant about bites from now on,” Dr Carroll said.
“Increased numbers of mosquitoes bring an increased risk of contracting mosquito-borne diseases, such as Ross River virus and Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV).
“Stings can be experienced at any time of day, but some species are most active at dusk and dawn, so you need to be especially vigilant at those times.”
Dr Carroll said common summer holiday activities at this time of year led to higher risks of falling victim to dangerous stings.
“If you are going outdoors during the holiday period, such as hiking, camping or enjoying backyard barbecues, you should take precautions against mosquitoes,” he said.
Australians have been warned of an increased risk of illness as mosquito numbers increase over the Christmas and summer holiday period.
He said it was also important for everyone to take steps to prevent mosquitoes from breeding and entering their homes.
“Be sure to walk around your house and empty any containers that hold water,” Dr. Carroll said.
“You should also make sure that the mosquito nets are in good condition so that mosquitoes cannot easily enter your home.”
Ross River virus infection is the most common mosquito-borne disease reported in Queensland.
“We typically see cases begin to increase with the arrival of rain and warm temperatures in December, before peaking in February and March,” Dr. Carroll said.
“Symptoms of Ross River virus can include fever, swollen and painful joints, and rash.”
There is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment available for Ross River virus.
People should also be aware of JEV, a rare but serious disease that can be transmitted to humans through infected mosquitoes.
“We have been notified by the New South Wales health authorities that surveillance programs have identified JEV activity among wild boar and mosquito populations across the state, and some activity has been detected near the Queensland border,” he said. Dr. Carroll.
This means there is likely an increased risk of JEV, he said.
“Residents of the Far North, Darling Downs, South West and Wide Bay regions should be especially vigilant as this is where JEV has previously been detected in Queensland in recent years.”
Doctors are urging people to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites (pictured) as they could contract the deadly Ross River virus and Japanese encephalitis virus.
The disease caused by JEV occurs most commonly in pigs and horses, but can be transmitted to humans through the bites of mosquitoes that become infected after biting infected animals.
“Although most people infected with the virus are asymptomatic, it can cause fever, headaches and skin rashes,” Dr. Carroll said.
“In severe cases, the disease can lead to serious neurological illnesses, including seizures.”
Steps to prevent mosquito bites
Apply insect repellent to exposed skin and reapply according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Use insect repellent effective against mosquitoes, preferably one that contains DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
Wear loose, light-colored clothing to cover your arms, legs, and feet.
Use insecticidal sprays, insecticide-based mist dispensing units, and, if outdoors in a well-ventilated area, mosquito coils.
Make sure tents have mosquito nets to keep out mosquitoes, or sleep under a mosquito net when camping.