Northern Beaches Council has advised residents to take extra precautions against mosquitoes after Ross River Virus was detected in mosquitoes trapped at Narrabeen Lagoon.
Ross River Virus is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. While many people experience mild or no symptoms, some may develop flu like illness including fever, chills, headache, fatigue, and muscle and joint pain. Joint swelling and stiffness can occur, particularly in the morning, and some people may develop a rash on the body, arms or legs.
Symptoms usually develop between seven and 10 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.
Council works in partnership with NSW Health to monitor mosquito activity across the Northern Beaches, including trapping mosquitoes at key wetland and lagoon locations to identify species numbers and test for viral infections.
Monitoring traps are currently in place at Warriewood Wetlands and Deep Creek, near the Narrabeen Lagoon walking trail.
There is currently no vaccine for Ross River Virus. Residents are encouraged to reduce their risk of mosquito bites by taking the following precautions:
- Wear long, loose fitting clothing to minimise skin exposure.
- Use an insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE).
- Avoid outdoor activity during peak mosquito times at dawn and dusk.
- Remove standing water around the home, including containers, bird baths, children’s toys and pot plant trays, where mosquitoes can breed.
Residents can visit NSW Health for more tips on how to control mosquitoes around the home.
More information on council’s mosquito management activities is available in the Northern Beaches Council Mosquito Management Plan.