With mosquitoes out in force over the coming weeks, WA Health is warning Western Australians to protect themselves.
The warning follows ongoing Ross River virus and Barmah Forest virus detections from mosquitoes collected in the South West, through the Department’s surveillance program.
Dr Jay Nicholson, Medical Entomologist at WA Department of Health, said everyone across WA needs to avoid being bitten this festive season.
“These viruses can be debilitating, with symptoms including painful and swollen joints, sore muscles, skin rashes, fever, fatigue and headaches,” Dr Nicholson said.
“There is currently no vaccine or specific treatment for these diseases – the only way to prevent infection is to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.
“With the northern wet season approaching, residents and travellers to the north of WA should also expect an increase in mosquitoes and associated virus activity over the coming months.”
The Department recently expanded its repellent dispenser initiative, providing free repellent stations to eligible community organisations in high-risk locations to help people prevent mosquito bites.
The Department also undertakes mosquito management in collaboration with local government to minimise the impacts of mosquito-borne disease in WA, however Dr Nicholson emphasised it is not realistic to rely on mosquito management programs alone to control all mosquitoes.
“It’s really important for people to take their own precautions to avoid being bitten,” Dr Nicholson said.
Advice about mosquito avoidance is available via HealthyWA, and includes:
Cover up:
• Wear long, loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing.
• Ensure insect screens are installed and in good condition on houses and caravans.
• Use mosquito nets and mosquito-proof tents if sleeping outside.
Repel:
• Apply an effective personal mosquito repellent containing diethyltoluamide (DEET), picaridin or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (also known as PMD) evenly to all areas of exposed skin and always follow the label instructions.
• Do not confuse Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus with eucalyptus oil and other botanicals that do not provide sufficient protection.
Clean up:
• Keep grass and other vegetation short to help prevent mosquitoes around your home.
• Empty or remove water holding containers around your home.
For more information on how to prevent mosquito bites: http://healthywa.wa.gov.au/fightthebite
(ENDS)
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