Holidaymakers planning to head to the regions this Easter long weekend have been warned to cover up to avoid mosquito bites as Ross River virus cases surge, with more than 1,500 cases recorded in Queensland alone. Easter long weekend campers warned to cover up to avoid bites, with cases also recorded in NSW and Victoria.
Mosquitoes can transmit a range of viruses that can cause disease including Japanese encephalitis (JE), Ross River virus, Barmah Forest virus, Murray Valley encephalitis and West Nile/Kunjin virus. The Ethnic Council has free supplies of mosquito repellent.
Victorians are advised to protect themselves against mosquito-borne diseases such as Ross River virus infection and Barmah Forest virus infection this summer.
Experts say record-breaking floods in Australia are allowing mosquitoes to thrive, increasing the risk of spreading diseases like the Ross River virus, Barmah Forest Virus and Murray Valley Encephalitis.
Mosquitoes need stagnant water. Immature insects emerge from eggs and develop underwater until they become pupae, and then adults. Females require blood before laying eggs and can inject saliva and virus into humans when they bite.
After a flood or heavy rainfall, mosquitoes grow and spread in the pools of water left behind. Mosquitoes can carry diseases and spread it by biting you.