As summer approaches and temperatures rise, NSW Health has issued a warning about the increased risk of mosquito-borne viruses. This year, the alert comes earlier than usual due to the detection of two significant viruses in November. The Japanese Encephalitis virus was identified in mosquitoes in the Horsham Rural City Council region of Victoria, while the Kunjin virus was found in a sentinel chicken blood sample in Cowra, Western NSW.
Dr. Stephen Conaty, Director of Health Protection at NSW Health, expressed concern over these early detections, noting that mosquito numbers are expected to rise with the warmer weather. He emphasized the importance of protecting against mosquito bites, which can transmit diseases such as Japanese Encephalitis, Murray Valley Encephalitis, Kunjin virus, Ross River virus, and Barmah Forest virus.
High-Risk Areas and Prevention Measures
Currently, 60 Local Government Areas (LGAs) are considered at higher risk for the Japanese Encephalitis virus. Residents and visitors in areas such as Lismore, Richmond Valley, and Kyogle are advised to take extra precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
LGAs of High Concern
- Albury
- Balranald
- Berrigan
- Bland
- Bogan
- Bourke
- Brewarrina
- Broken Hill
- Cabonne
- Cootamundra-Gundagai
- Cowra
- …and others
For a complete list of high-risk LGAs, please refer to the NSW Health advisory.
Vaccination and Protection
Dr. Conaty highlighted the availability of a safe and effective vaccine against Japanese Encephalitis. This vaccine is offered free to residents and workers in the 60 high-risk LGAs and certain high-risk occupations. It can be obtained through General Practitioners, Aboriginal health services, and pharmacists, though appointments should be made in advance.
Aside from vaccination, there is no specific treatment for Kunjin virus or other mosquito-borne diseases in Australia. Prevention through avoiding mosquito bites remains the best strategy.
Effective Mosquito Bite Prevention
NSW Health recommends several strategies to minimize mosquito bites:
- Apply repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin.
- Reapply repellent regularly, especially after swimming, and apply sunscreen before repellent.
- Wear light, loose-fitting long-sleeve shirts, long pants, socks, and covered footwear.
- Avoid outdoor activities during peak mosquito times, particularly at dawn and dusk.
- Use insecticide sprays, vapor dispensing units, and mosquito coils in well-ventilated areas.
- Install insect screens on windows and doors.
- Remove stagnant water sources, such as old tires and empty planters, to prevent mosquito breeding.
- For children, ensure repellents are kid-friendly and use mosquito netting for infants.
- When camping, use tents with fly screens or sleep under mosquito nets.
Choosing the Right Repellent
For those seeking the most effective mosquito repellents, NSW Health has provided a guide to help residents choose the best products available. Additionally, investing in mosquito-repelling plants for the backyard can further reduce mosquito presence.
“There is a safe, effective and free vaccine to protect against Japanese Encephalitis (JE). This vaccine is free to anyone who lives or routinely works in these 60 LGAs west of the dividing range and in northern NSW, and for people who work in some other high-risk occupations.” – Dr. Stephen Conaty
As the summer season unfolds, the public is urged to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting themselves against mosquito-borne diseases. With early virus detections and rising mosquito populations, taking preventive measures is more crucial than ever.
