Experts say Ross River virus cases to increase in coming weeks

Experts say cases of a painful mosquito-borne virus are set to surge in coming weeks following a record breaking year in Geelong. Here’s why disease-carrying mozzies have been feasting on us more than ever.

Experts predict cases of a painful mosquito-borne disease are set to surge in coming weeks.

Greater Geelong and the Surf Coast both recorded their worst years on record for cases of Ross River virus in 2021.

The disease can cause joint swelling and pain, ­fatigue and muscle aches, and a rash and fever may also develop.

Greater Geelong has recorded four Ross River virus cases so far this year, according to health department data.

That’s compared to 64 in the same period in 2021 and one in that time in 2020.

The Surf Coast has recorded one case so far this year.

Barwon South West public health unit director Eugene Athan said heavy rainfall was a significant factor causing a record number of Ross River virus cases in the Surf Coast and Greater Geelong region.

Prof Eugene Athan

“It is believed that under-reporting of Ross River virus cases is the main reason for low numbers recorded so far in 2022, since we know that the La Nina rainfall is likely to have led to greater mosquito numbers in our region, which spread the virus,” he said.

“Case numbers are expected to increase significantly over the following month.”

Prof Athan said the City of Greater Geelong was engaged in mosquito control programs to limit the spread of the virus in our region.

Local GP and Wester Victoria Primary Health Network clinical spokeswoman Anne Stephenson said Ross River infections generally peaked from December to April.

“The months of February and March often have conditions conducive to mosquito breeding,” she said.

“The forecast warm weather over the coming week follows substantial rainfall in late January and increases the likelihood of mosquitoes breeding.”

Dr Stephenson said most cases presented in February to March.

“Ross River virus isn’t to be taken lightly and affects different people in different ways,” she said.

“While the symptoms of pain, discomfort and fatigue are often common, some people will recover quickly and others will experience these symptoms for several months and possibly longer.

“It is important that people reduce their risk of being bitten by mosquitoes.”

A state health department spokesman said since the start of the mosquito season in November, routine mosquito surveillance had been in operation to detect Ross River virus in areas of the state where mosquito-borne diseases are most common.

“Ross River virus is endemic throughout much of Victoria, so it’s important people continue to take simple measures to avoid getting bitten - like covering up as much as possible and using effective mosquito repellents,” the spokesman said.

Originally published as Experts say Ross River virus cases to increase in coming weeks