Protect yourself against mosquitoes this Easter break
Protect yourself against mosquitoes this Easter break
6 April 2023
A significant increase in the activity of the Murray Valley encephalitis (MVE), Japanese encephalitis (JE) and Kunjin family of viruses has been detected across the State.
Initial symptoms of MVE and JE include fever, drowsiness, headache, stiff neck, nausea and dizziness.
People experiencing these symptoms should seek medical advice as soon as possible. In young children, fever might be the only early sign of infection.
Parents should see their doctor or local health service if concerned, particularly if their child experiences drowsiness, floppiness, irritability, poor feeding, or general distress.
Protect yourself and your family:
- avoid outdoor exposure, particularly at dawn and in the early evening
- wear protective (long, loose-fitting, light-coloured) clothing when outdoors
- apply an effective personal repellent containing diethyltoluamide (DEET), picaridin or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (also known as PMD) evenly to all areas of exposed skin and always follow the label instructions
- ensure insect screens are installed and in good condition on houses and caravans
- use mosquito nets and mosquito-proof tents if sleeping outside
- use mosquito coils and mosquito lanterns and apply barrier sprays containing bifenthrin in patio and outdoor areas around houses
- ensure babies and children are protected against mosquito bites, with suitable clothing, shoes/socks, bed nets or other forms of insect screening
- keep grass/weeds and other vegetation short to reduce shelter for adult mosquitoes
- remove water-holding containers from around the home and garden to ensure mosquitoes do not breed in the backyard.