Warning over Ross River virus outbreak across Victoria

PEOPLE are being urged to take extra care to protect themselves amid the worst outbreak of the mosquito-borne disease in at least a decade.

Bruce Summerfield using a ULV fogging machine to attack mosquitoes in Mildura. Picture: Tony Gough

VICTORIA is experiencing the worst outbreak of Ross River virus seen in at least a decade.

Department of Health and Human Services data shows the 654 cases diagnosed from January 1-30 this year is more than 20 times higher than the last outbreak in 2011.

In the equivalent January period there were 32 notifications in 2011 with 1330 cases for the year.

The average number of Ross River virus cases each year is 252.

Mosquito-borne viruses detected in Mildura, Moira, Barmah Forest

Victoria’s chief health officer Professor Charles Guest has issued a warning for people to take extra care to protect themselves against Ross River, Barmah Forest virus and the potentially life-threatening Murray Valley encephalitis virus.

“The number of Ross River virus notifications being made to the department this year-to-date is the largest that Victoria has seen compared to equivalent periods in the preceding 10 years,” he said.

“Given the unprecedented number of notifications that have been made to the department so far this year, we expect that the magnitude of this year’s outbreak will be larger than the outbreak observed in 2011.

“All parts of Victoria where there are mosquitoes may carry a risk for Ross River virus infection, although the risk is greatest in rural and regional Victoria,” he said.

Prof Guest said people bitten by an infected mosquito may experience joint swelling and pain, fatigue and muscle aches.

It takes three to nine days for symptoms of Ross River virus disease to occur after exposure, and sometimes up to 21 days, he said.

Health Minister Jill Hennessy said heavy rainfall last year had created ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes, resulting in increasing reports of mosquito-borne illness.

If you have any concerns about your health phone Nurse on Call on 1300 606 024.

Tips to reduce the risk of being infected with mosquito-borne disease

— Wear long, loose fitting clothing because mosquitoes can bite through tight fitting clothing

— Use mosquito repellents on all exposed skin

— Install a flywire screen on all windows and self-closing wire screens on doors

— Remove stagnant water at least every week including from flower pots, tyres, buckets, tins, bird baths and pet bowls

— Empty children’s wading pools when not being used and keep fishponds stocked with fish

— Mosquito nets or screens will help keep mosquitoes out of tents and added protection can be provided by treating the nets with an appropriate insecticide

— Limit outdoor activity at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active