Published on Friday, 22 January 2021 at 3:19:18 PM
An increase in the number of Ross River Virus cases in the Great Southern has prompted the City to encourage residents and holiday-makers to protect themselves against mosquito bites this summer.
Recent warm weather, rainfall and increased humidity in the region has resulted in more favourable breeding conditions for mosquitos and a subsequent increase in the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.
The City of Albany implements control measures in mosquito-prone public areas but given the growing number of possible breeding locations it is challenging to control all mosquitoes across the entire region.
Community are encouraged to take steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites by covering up, using repellent and cleaning up areas around the home that are mosquito breeding hot spots.
Manager of Public Health and Safety Scott Reitsema said enabling the community with the right education to protect themselves was vital as it is the only way to prevent the infection.
“With this increase of Ross River Virus cases in the community, residents must be alert to the symptoms such as painful and swollen joints, sore muscles, skin rashes, fever, fatigue and headaches that can last from weeks to months,” he said.
“The City can undertake monitoring and baiting of problem areas, however public education and awareness is often the best way to control and avoid exposure to disease carrying mosquitoes.
“Therefore the City continues to promote the Fight the Bite campaign that encourages residents to protect themselves from mosquitoes by providing education om the risk associated with mosquito bites and how to avoid them.”
For more information on mosquito control, visit www.albany.wa.gov.au or head to www.healthywa.gov.au/fightthebite.
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