Doctors warn of major ‘risk of Ross River virus and Japanese encephalitis’ as mosquitos swarm

Australians are being warned of increased disease risk as mosquito numbers swarm over the Christmas and summer holiday period.

Doctors are urging people to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites as they could lead to contracting the deadly Ross River virus and Japanese encephalitis virus. 

Queensland’s Chief Health Officer Dr Heidi Carroll said recent wet weather in that state has created the perfect breeding conditions for mosquitoes, which means numbers will be on the rise.

‘Mosquito numbers always increase significantly in wet and warm weather, and Queenslanders need to be extra vigilant against bites starting now,’ Dr Carroll said.

‘With increased mosquito numbers comes increased risk of contracting mosquito-borne illnesses, such as Ross River virus and Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV)

‘Biting can be experienced at any time of day, but some species are most active at dusk and dawn, so you need to be particularly vigilant at these times.’

Dr Carroll said common summer holiday activities at this time of year led to higher risks of falling prey to dangerous bites.  

‘If you’re heading outdoors over the holiday period, such as going bushwalking, camping or enjoying backyard barbecues, you need to be taking precautions against mosquitoes,’ she said.

Australians have been warned of increased disease risk as mosquito numbers rise over the Christmas and summer holiday period

She said it was also important everyone took measures to prevent mosquitoes breeding and getting inside their home.

‘Make sure you take a walk around your home and empty any containers holding water,’ Dr Carroll said.

‘You should also ensure flyscreens are in good order so mosquitoes can’t enter your home easily.’

Ross River virus infection is the most common mosquito-borne disease reported in Queensland.

‘Typically, we see cases start increasing with the onset of rain and warm temperatures in December, before they peak in February and March,’ Dr Carroll said.

‘Symptoms of Ross River virus may include fever, swollen and painful joints, and a rash.’

There is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment available for Ross River virus.

People also need to be mindful of JEV, a rare but serious illness which can be spread to humans by infected mosquitoes.

‘We’ve been notified by New South Wales health authorities that surveillance programs have identified JEV activity among feral pig populations and mosquitoes across the state, with some activity detected near the Queensland border,’ Dr Carroll said.

This means there is likely an increased risk of JEV, she said.

‘Residents in the Far North, Darling Downs, South West and Wide Bay regions particularly need to be 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 lead to contracting the deadly Ross River virus and Japanese encephalitis virus

Doctors are urging people to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites (pictured) as they could lead to contracting the deadly Ross River virus and Japanese encephalitis virus

Disease caused by JEV most commonly occurs in pigs and horses but can be transmitted to humans from bites from mosquitoes that become infected after they bite infected animals.

‘While most people infected with the virus are asymptomatic, it can cause fever, headaches and rashes,’ Dr Carroll said.

‘In severe cases, the disease can cause serious neurological illness including convulsions.’

Steps to prevent mosquito bites

Applying insect repellent to exposed skin and reapply according to manufacturer’s instructions. 

Use effective insect repellent against mosquitoes, preferably ones that contains DEET, Picaridin or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus.

Wear loose, light-coloured clothing to cover up arms, legs and feet.

Use insecticide sprays, insecticide-based vapour dispensing units and, if outdoors in a well-ventilated area, mosquito coils.

Ensure that tents have screens to prevent mosquitoes entering, or sleep under a mosquito net when camping.

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