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Mosquito
A few cases of ross River fever and 1 case of Barmah Forest Virus were Diagnosed in 2017 in our local region.
The can be a marked increase in total numbers of mosquitoes in inland areas following flood events and heavy rains.
Prevention advice
• To minimise the risk of mosquito bites, patients should be advised to: o Cover-up with a loose-fitting long sleeved shirt and long pants when outside
o Apply mosquito repellent containing DEET or Picaridin to exposed skin
o Take special care during peak mosquito biting hours, especially around dawn and dusk
o Remove potential mosquito breeding sites from around the home and screen windows and doors
o Take extra precautions when travelling or camping in areas with a higher risk of mosquito-borne diseases.
Further information from NSW Health:
• For information on reducing the risk of mosquito bites see the Mosquitoes are a Health Hazard fact sheet: www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/factsheets/Pages/mosquito.aspx
• RRV fact sheet: www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/factsheets/Pages/ross-river-fever.aspx
• BFV fact sheet www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/factsheets/Pages/Barmah_Forest_virus_infection.aspx
• NSW arbovirus/mosquito surveillance reports: www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/pests/vector/Pages/resources.aspx