A friendly reminder to all our Victorian readers: stay vigilant and protect yourself from those pesky mosquitoes and the scorching summer heat!
Mosquitoes, those tiny yet mighty creatures, have been detected carrying the Ross River virus in traps around Geelong and Gippsland. And it's not just limited to those areas; there's a good chance mosquitoes in other coastal regions of Victoria are also carriers.
But here's where it gets controversial: the Japanese encephalitis virus was also found in a mosquito trap in Horsham back in early December. And this is the part most people miss - it was detected in Wangaratta and Alpine shires last year too!
The Victorian Arbovirus Disease Control Program has been monitoring these mosquitoes, and their findings are a wake-up call for all of us.
Chief health officer Dr. Caroline McElnay has some valuable advice to avoid those itchy mosquito bites. She suggests wearing long, loose-fitting clothes, using repellent with picaridin or DEET, and avoiding outdoor activities during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are at their most active.
For those planning to travel over the Australia Day period, Dr. McElnay recommends packing repellent, ensuring your accommodation has intact mosquito screens, using mosquito coils, and camping away from rivers and lakes where mosquitoes breed.
Now, let's talk about the symptoms of Ross River virus. They can include fever, joint pain and swelling, muscle aches, fatigue, or a rash. And here's the tricky part - symptoms may not always be present, but they can last for weeks or even months. So, if you experience any of these symptoms, it's best to seek advice from your GP.
But it's not just mosquitoes we need to be cautious of; extreme heat is also a serious concern. Dr. McElnay advises Victorians to take steps to protect themselves and their loved ones from the heat. She emphasizes that while extreme heat can affect anyone, those aged 65 and older, young children, people with medical conditions, and those with limited access to cooling methods are at a higher risk.
So, stay cool, stay hydrated, and schedule your activities during the cooler parts of the day. Check in on your family, friends, and neighbors, especially those who might be more vulnerable. And remember, never leave a child unattended in a vehicle, not even for a minute.
For more information on Ross River virus and how to protect yourself from mosquito-borne diseases, visit the Better Health Channel.
Stay safe, Victorians! And let's have a healthy and enjoyable summer.
