For the first time this season, Ross River Virus has been detected in Griffith.
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As a result, Griffith City Council is advising residents and visitors in the area to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
The first detection of the mosquito-borne virus came back positive from a recently tested trap at Lake Wyangan.
Council's Environmental and Public Health Coordinator, Vanessa Johns said although mosquito numbers are declining, it is a timely reminder for the community to be vigilant to prevent mosquito bites.
"Symptoms of the Ross River Virus include muscle pain, rash, fever, headache, joint swelling, and tiredness or weakness," Ms Johns said.
"There is no specific treatment available for Ross River virus infection.
"Your doctor will be able to recommend how to treat the symptoms."
Those looking to protect themselves and their family should avoid being bitten by doing the following:
- wear light, loose-fitting clothing that cover your arms and legs when outdoors. Also, wear socks and covered footwear, especially around dusk and dawn
- apply repellent to all areas of exposed skin. Use repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, or lemon eucalyptus oil
- re-apply repellent regularly, especially after swimming. Be sure to always apply sunscreen first and then apply repellent
- cover openings such as windows and doors with insect screens and make sure there are no gaps in them
- remove items that might collect water outside your house where mosquitoes can breed such as old tyres and empty pots
- improve drainage on your property so that water does not become stagnant
- use insecticide sprays, vapour dispensing units and mosquito coils to keep mosquitos away. Only use mosquito coils outside.
2021 saw a surge in cases of the virus across the region, including Griffith which has been noted as an epicenter for the virus in past years.