Health authorities have confirmed an outbreak of the mosquito-borne virus Ross River in southern Queensland and Northern NSW.

Heavy rain and high tides have been blamed for a rise in mosquito numbers and a significant increase in the number of people falling ill due to being bitten.

According to QLD and NSW Health figures – there have been 540 cases so far this year in NSW, compared to 80 cases in the same period last year.  Whereas in Queensland 380 people had been infected with the virus earlier this year, with the figure now rising to 1,000 cases since the start of the year.

Ross River virus is spread by the bite of infected mosquitoes and symptoms appear three to 11 days later.

There is no known cure and symptoms include painful or swollen joints, sore muscles, skin rashes, fever, fatigue and headaches.  The director of infectious diseases at Gold Coast University Hospital, Dr John Gerrard, said,

"The majority of people will recover within six weeks but some people will have symptoms that will last up to a number of months". 

With many going on holidays and spending more time outdoors over the Easter Period, health authorities are encouraging people to wear repellent or protective clothing.

Contact your local AEPMA member to discuss how to control mosquitoes.

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