Beach this weekend? High alert for fever and flesh-eating bug

Victorian health authorities have issued another warning about Ross River fever with cases in the state more than double the average this summer.

The state has recorded 448 cases of the mosquito-borne virus to Thursday, compared to 200 in a typical year. Most cases have been linked to the Surf Coast and Bellarine Peninsula, both popular holiday spots for Ballarat residents. Cases have also been high in East Gippsland.

This comes as a flesh-eating bug has started to spread to Geelong suburbs and Aireys Inlet, on the coast. Buruli Ulcer also starts from mosquito bites.

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Ross River virus can cause joint pain and stiffness, headache, fever, rash and fatigue.

Medical advice is recommended.

Health authorities warned late last year Ross River virus had been detected in regional areas.

Victoria's communicable disease executive director Bruce Bolam said the early summer conditions, especially in coastal areas, had helped mosquito breeding.

"Everyone is encouraged to wear long, loose fitting clothes and use repellents containing picaridin or DEET on exposed skin," he said.

"People should ensure that insect screens fitted to doors and windows around the home are in good condition."

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