BALLARAT RESIDENTS planning to visit or stay on the Surf Coast this summer are urged to protect themselves from more fever-like viruses - those from mosquito bites.
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Victoria's deputy chief health officer Annaliese van Diemen has confirmed Ross River virus has been detected in mosquitoes in Anglesea. Dr van Diemen said weather and water conditions have been favourable to mosquitoes biting and breeding about Geelong, the Surf Coast and Bellarine Peninsula - all popular holiday spots for Ballarat residents.
Popular breeding areas on the Surf Coast include Torquay North, Breamlea and Anglesea River.
Geelong Advertiser reports there has already been a sharp spike in Ross River fever cases in Geelong and the Surf Coast.
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Victoria's health department is also warning people about the potential for Barmah Forest virus, which is similar to Ross River virus in joint pain and swelling, muscle soreness, headaches, fever, rash and fatigue. Symptoms for Ross River virus can emerge three to nine days after a bite, sometimes up to 21 days later, while Barmah Forest disease symptoms usually show seven to 10 days after infection.
The department warms some symptoms may recur in some individuals for more than a year.
There is no vaccine and health department advises people be prepared and protected as the best method for prevention. This includes:
- using mosquito repellent containing picaridin or DEET on exposed skin
- wearing long, loose fitting clothing when outside
- avoid outdoor activity when mosquito numbers are high, particularly dawn and dusk
- and, ensuring accommodation, including tents, are properly fitted with mosquito nettings or screens.
Victoria's health department also advises people who develop fever and chills should also be tested for COVID-19 since this is a possible cause for symptoms.
Ross River fever has also been detected in Mildura.
