Mosquito Borne Viruses

Mosquito Borne Viruses

ABC News

Australia

Following a number of confirmed cases of mosquitoes borne viruses in Australia, the Health Department is reminding people to take extra care and to avoid mosquito bites.

In Kimberley and Wheatbelt there have been again another confirmed case of Murray Valley Encephalitis and Kunjin virus respectively.  Also cases of Ross River and Barmah viruses have been detected between Perth and the South West.

Medical entomologist Peter Neville says people need to be alert and that “all of these diseases can have numerous symptoms including muscle aches, joint aches, headaches and some of them can potentially be fatal,” he said.

He also suggested a number of steps that can be taken to avoid being bitten.

“People don’t need to alter any holiday plans over the Christmas period but its important to avoid outdoor exposure around dawn and dusk,” he said.

“Wear protective long loose fitting clothing and also apply personal repellent containing DEET or picaridin.”

 Figure: Mosquito Feeding

Although not stated in this report the unusually wet weather of Australia this year has created breeding sites for the mosquito vector resulting in increased mosquito populations and consequently increased risk of mosquito-borne viruses. 

Source:  ABC News