Georges River Warning Ross River Fever

[JJAfelice]

For those that fish the George River. This warning just popped up in my FB newsfeed from the South Eastern Sydney Local Health District

 

 

GEORGES RIVER - Health warning for Ross River Fever virus.

The South Eastern Sydney Local Health District has issued yet another warning for residents that live near the Georges River area after the Ross River virus was again detected last week.

According to the public health unit, the Ross River virus was detected on three occasions last week during trapping of the saltmarsh mosquito, 'Aedes vigilax', around the Illawong and Picnic Point area of the Georges River.

The continuance of very high tides may promote further breeding of the saltmarsh mosquito which has been breeding in high numbers around the Georges River since similar tides at the end of December.

“Barmah Forest virus and Ross River virus are spread by mosquitoes that feed on infected animals. Symptoms may include tiredness, rash, fever, and sore and swollen joints. While these symptoms usually subside after several days, some people may experience symptoms for weeks, or even months,” said District's Public Health Director, Professor Mark Ferson.

“Members of the public should see their local doctor if they experience these symptoms. The infection is diagnosed by a blood test and a second blood test taken two weeks after the first may be needed to confirm the diagnosis,'' he ended.

The public health unit is continuing to monitor notified cases of Ross River and Barmah Forest virus infection.

Steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes include,
• Avoid being outside, unprotected, when mosquitoes are common at dawn and dusk. When outside, cover up as much as possible with light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing and covered
footwear.
• Apply mosquito repellent regularly to exposed areas (as directed on the container). Repellents containing Diethyl Toluamide (DEET) or Picaridin are best.
• Don’t use repellents on the skin of children under the age of three months. Instead use physical barriers such as netting on prams, cots and play areas for babies.
• Eradicate mosquito breeding sites around the home, such as containers that hold water.
• Use flyscreens on windows and doors of houses and keep them in good order.
• When camping, use flyscreens, or sleep under mosquito nets.

[mrsswordfisherman]

Thanks JJA for this one