Residents of Central Australia are being urged to protect themselves against mosquitoes that could carry Ross River virus (RRV) and Barmah Forest virus (BFV) following rain in the area.
Symptoms most commonly associated with infections from RRV and BFV include painful or swollen joints (particularly in the hands, ankles and knees), sore muscles, aching tendons, skin rash, fatigue, fever, headache and swollen lymph nodes.
"The main mosquito that transmits RRV and BFV is the common banded mosquito. Receptacle-breeding mosquitoes are also potential carriers of RRV," said Nina Kurucz, Operations Manager, Medical Entomology, Department of Health and Families Centre for Disease Control.
"Mosquitoes breed in grassy depressions and drains, water-filled containers including pot plant drip trays, old tyres, drums, boats, disused pools and fish ponds, roof gutters, and even palm frond bases.
"Residents are urged to check roof gutters to make sure they are free-draining, tip out anything that can hold water, and store containers under cover," added Ms Kurucz.
Measures to prevent mosquito bites include:
·avoid outdoor exposure around dusk and at night, near rivers and areas of dense vegetation, and any areas of high mosquito activity
·use mosquito-proof accommodation and camping facilities at night
·between dusk and dawn where mosquito bites are likely, wear protective light-coloured clothing with long sleeves, long trousers, and ankle protection with socks
·use a protective repellent containing 20 per cent DEET or Picaridin as a supplement to protective clothing when outdoors at night
·ensure children are adequately protected against mosquito bites
·contact the Alice Springs Environmental Health Office on 8955 6122 if you have concerns about mosquito breeding sites
Symptoms of infections from RRV and BFV can last from a few weeks or months, with some people experiencing symptoms for up to one year. Children are generally less affected by RRV disease than adults, and tend to recover quicker.
There is no vaccine to prevent RRV or BFV infection. Protection from being bitten is the best course of action to prevent these diseases.
More information: www.health.nt.gov.au/Medical_Entomology
Release date: 11 January 2010
