There is expected to be a seasonal increase in mosquitoes because of the weather the region has had lately.
This means residents need to be more aware of preventing mosquito borne viruses.
North Coast Public Health Unit’s Robin Auld said mosquitoes in the NSW North Coast can carry viruses which can lead to debilitating illness in humans, such as Ross River and Barmah Forest.
“Mosquitoes thrive in wet, warm conditions like much of the North Coast is currently experiencing,” Mr Auld said.
A recent trapping program in Balliana LGA detected Ross River virus.
The best way to avoid these mosquito-borne diseases is to avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes.
“While we are not seeing large numbers of notifications for illnesses just yet, we expect this to rise over the coming weeks as the mosquito numbers increase over the annual peak season,” Mr Auld said.
Ross River and Barmah Forest viruses may cause unpleasant symptoms ranging from tiredness, rash, headache, and sore and swollen joints that can last several weeks.
More serious diseases can be found in NSW, particularly west of the ranges, such as Murray Valley Encephalitis, Kunjin and Japanese Encephalitis.
People are encouraged to take actions to prevent mosquito bites by:
• Apply repellent to exposed skin. Use repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Check the label for reapplication times.
• Re-apply repellent regularly, particularly after swimming. Be sure to apply sunscreen first and then apply repellent.
• Wear light, loose-fitting long-sleeve shirts, long pants and covered footwear and socks.
• Avoid going outdoors during peak mosquito times, especially at dawn and dusk.
• Use insecticide sprays, vapour dispensing units, and mosquito coils to repel mosquitoes (mosquito coils should only be used outdoors in well-ventilated areas).
• Cover windows and doors with insect screens and checking there are no gaps.
• Remove items that may collect water such as old tyres and empty pots from around your home to reduce the places where mosquitoes can breed.
• Use repellents that are safe for children. Most skin repellents are safe for use on children aged three months and older. Always check the label for instructions and safety precautions.
• Protect infants aged less than three months by using an infant carrier draped with mosquito netting, secured along the edges.
• While camping, use a tent that has fly screens to prevent mosquitoes getting in or sleep under a mosquito net.
More info at NSW Health website.
Information for this report was provided by Northern NSW Local Health District.
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