WA Health warns Ross River virus detected at Swan River in Crawley, Perth

The disease has no vaccine, cure or specific treatment and symptoms can include sore muscles, skin rashes, fever, fatigue and headaches, lasting for weeks to months.

Health authorities have warned the community that a “debilitating” mosquito-borne virus has been detected in popular riverside suburb in Western Australia.

Ross River virus (RRV) was found in mosquitoes collected in Crawley by the City of Perth as part of a WA Health co-ordinated mosquito surveillance program.

Acting Director of Environmental Health Dr Peter Gray said virus activity had recently been identified at a trapping site in Pelican Point, Crawley.

“We are encouraging people to take steps to prevent mosquito bites, particularly over the long weekend when people are more likely to be outside socialising,” Dr Gray said.

Health authorities have urged people to take protective measures. Picture: WHO

He added there had been increased mosquito activity in recent weeks due to an extended period of environmental conditions favourable to mosquito breeding, including persistently high tides and warmer weather.

“However, river goers are reminded not to rely on mosquito management programs alone to control all mosquitoes,” Dr Gray said.

“People need to take their own precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

“Ross River virus is the most common mosquito-borne virus in WA and symptoms can be debilitating.

“There is no vaccine, cure or specific treatment for RRV, so it is important that people take care to prevent being bitten by mosquitoes.

The symptoms of the virus can last for weeks to months and include skin rashes, fever, and fatigue.

“Check if your home is mosquito-proof and make sure you have appropriate clothing and effective repellent, to keep you and your family safe.”

Symptoms of RRV infection include painful or swollen joints, sore muscles, skin rashes, fever, fatigue and headaches, lasting for weeks to months.

The only way to diagnose a mosquito-borne disease is to visit a general practitioner and get a blood test.

WA Health recommends taking steps like checking for secure insect screens on houses or caravans and using mosquito nets or mosquito-proof nets if sleeping outside; applying an effective personal mosquito repellent, and keeping vegetation short as well as removing any containers with still water around your home.

Originally published as WA Health warns Ross River virus detected at Swan River in Crawley, Perth