Top End residents are being urged to remain vigilant and keep protecting themselves against mosquitoes. 

Director of Medical Entomology Nina Kurucz explained that December and January are the high risk months for Ross River virus (RRV).  

“High rainfall and a 7.76m tide on 24 December resulted in an increase in salt marsh mosquitoes” she said.

“Elevated numbers of salt marsh mosquitoes and also common banded mosquitoes can be expected within 5 kilometres of breeding grounds, including salt marsh areas, upper mangrove areas and seasonal wetlands.

In response the Department carried out aerial mosquito surveillance and control, with a total of 298 hectares of mosquito breeding sprayed in the Leanyer, Holmes Jungle, Micket Creek and Shoal Bay swamps between 22nd and 27th December.

“To avoid mosquito borne disease use personal mosquito protection and avoid being outdoors in wetland areas or places where mosquitoes are active, especially after sundown.”

Residents are also urged to inspect their backyards and tip out all water filled receptacles and store them upside down or under cover.

Ms Kurucz explained that mosquitoes that breed in artificial receptacles could also potentially carry RRV. Receptacles include buckets, plant drip trays, old tyres and pet water containers.

“Unused swimming pools can also be productive breeding grounds, and roof gutters need to be cleaned of debris to ensure they are free draining. Rainwater tanks should be inspected to ensure they are sealed against mosquito entry.  

People infected with RRV may develop a wide range of unpleasant symptoms, including painful or swollen joints, particularly in the hands, ankles and knees.

“Sore muscles, aching tendons, skin rash, fatigue, fever, headache and swollen lymph nodes are other signs of the illness. Symptoms can last for a few weeks, although some people experience symptoms for up to a year.

People are advised to:

·         use a protective repellent containing 20 per cent DEET or Picaridin as a supplement to protective clothing when outdoors in mosquito prone areas

·         wear light-coloured clothing with long sleeves, long trousers and socks, between dusk and dawn in areas where mosquito bites are likely

·         inspect the outdoors of their residences and businesses for water in receptacles and drain or cover them

·         avoid outdoor exposure around dusk and at night near areas of dense vegetation and other areas of high mosquito activity

·         use mosquito-proof accommodation and camping facilities at night

·         use mosquito coils, mosquito lanterns, and barrier sprays containing bifenthrin in patio and outdoor areas near houses

·         ensure children are adequately protected against mosquitoes.

Media Contact: Lorraine Hook 89 992 818 or 0401 116 203