Queenslanders are reminded to take precautions against mosquito bites this summer - and that includes making sure you remember the insect repellent if you’re heading outdoors.
As summer and school holidays kick off and the festive season approaches, Queenslanders are likely to be heading outdoors to enjoy activities such as bushwalking, fishing, barbecues, picnics, water sports and camping – all activities where you may encounter mosquitoes.
Communicable Diseases Branch Executive Director, Dr Heidi Carroll, said it’s common to see mosquito numbers increase after wet and warm weather, raising the risk of contracting mosquito-borne viruses such as Ross River virus, Barmah Forest virus and Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV).
“With summer temperatures and recent storms across much of the state, there’s high potential for the production of mosquitoes. This increases the chances of being bitten by mosquitoes, which may pose the risk of infection with a mosquito borne virus,” Dr Carroll said.
“We typically see an increase in reported mosquito borne virus cases in Queensland from December until around April or May each year.
“The most important message I have for Queenslanders is not to be complacent and to protect yourself against mosquito bites by taking measures such as applying insect repellent and wearing loose and light-coloured clothing and covered footwear when outdoors.
“Any mosquito could carry a mosquito borne virus but if you don’t get bitten, you can’t get infected.
“It’s important to remember that some mosquito borne viruses can be very dangerous and can result in serious illness or even death.”
Dr Carroll added that earlier this year, three cases of JEV were reported in Queensland, with two tragically resulting in death. These were the state’s first recorded fatalities from the virus since it first appeared on the Australian mainland as a large outbreak in 2022.
JEV is a rare, but potentially serious illness spread by infected mosquitoes. While not everyone infected by JEV will get sick, in severe cases, the virus can cause inflammation of the brain.
JEV was also detected this year in mosquito samples collected from the Goondiwindi and North Burnett Regional Council areas, and also from Hemmant, in Brisbane.
Additionally, there was a recent detection of Murray Valley encephalitis virus from a mosquito sample collected from a trap set in Cooktown.
Dr Carroll especially encouraged campers to be vigilant against mosquito bites.
“As school holidays begin, I know a lot of people will be planning camping and fishing trips. All campers should be especially vigilant against mosquito bites given you will be likely spending a lot of time outdoors, including at dawn and dusk when most mosquitoes are most active,” she said.
“It’s particularly important to make sure your tent is mosquito proof and any holes are patched up and your caravan is fitted with mosquito screens so you don’t end up getting bitten by mosquitoes during the day or night.
“While some types of mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk, there is potential to get bitten by mosquitoes at any time of day.”
Simple steps to prevent mosquito bites include:
- applying effective insect repellents that contain DEET, Picaridin or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus to exposed skin and reapplying as directed by the manufacturer
- wearing loose, light-coloured clothing with long sleeves, long trousers, and socks, and covered footwear when outdoors
- using insecticide sprays, insecticide-based vapour dispensing units and mosquito coils, if outdoors in a well-ventilated area
- ensuring proper screening in tents or sleep under a mosquito net when camping to prevent mosquitoes entering.
Background information:
JEV is a vaccine-preventable disease and vaccination is recommended for people at risk of exposure to the virus. JEV vaccination is provided free of charge for eligible at‑risk groups. More information about who is eligible and where to get vaccinated is available on the Queensland Health website.
There is no vaccine for other mosquito borne viruses, including Ross River virus and Barmah Forest virus, and disease prevention relies on not getting bitten by mosquitoes.
For more information on mosquito borne diseases, including prevention and symptoms, visit the Queensland Health website.
ENDS