NSW Health undertakes mosquito surveillance across the state from November to April each year, which provides important information about when mosquito-borne disease risk is elevated.
Murrumbidgee Local Health District Public Health Director, Alison Nikitas said the virus was detected in mosquito samples collected at Albury on 20 January 2025.
While this is the first detection in Albury this season, it is the second time the virus has been identified in the Griffith area. The latest sample in Griffith was taken on 21 January 2025 and follows an earlier detection from a sample taken on 21 December 2024.
“It is very important for the community to be aware of the risks and to take precautions against mosquito bites,” Ms Nikitas said.
“Avoiding mosquito bites will protect against mosquito-borne infections such as Ross River virus, Murray Valley encephalitis, Japanese encephalitis, and Barmah Forest virus.
“There is no vaccination or specific treatment for Ross River virus and the best way to prevent infection is to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes, which are most active at dusk and dawn.”
Ms Nikitas said Ross River virus is spread to humans by infected mosquitoes. The virus is not spread from person to person.
“Only a small proportion of people infected with the virus will have any symptoms, which include fever, chills, headache, muscle and joint pain, stiffness and swelling, rash on the body, arms or legs and tiredness or weakness,” Ms Nikitas said.
“Most people will make a full recovery after a few weeks. Others may have symptoms such as joint pain and tiredness for many months.”
People are encouraged to take actions to prevent mosquito bites and reduce the risk of acquiring a mosquito-borne virus by:
- Applying mosquito repellent to exposed skin. Use repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Check the label for reapplication times
- Wearing light, loose-fitting long-sleeve shirts, long pants and covered footwear and socks
- Avoiding going outdoors during peak mosquito times, especially dawn and dusk
- Using insecticide sprays, vapour dispensing units and mosquito coils to repel mosquitoes (mosquito coils should only be used outdoors in well-ventilated areas)
- Covering windows and doors with insect screens and checking there are no gaps
- Removing items that may collect water such as old tyres and empty pots from around your home to reduce the places where mosquitoes can breed
- Using repellents that are safe for children. Most skin repellents are safe for use on children aged three months and older. Always check the label for instructions
- Protecting infants aged less than three months by using an infant carrier draped with mosquito netting, secured along the edges
- While camping, use a tent that has fly screens to prevent mosquitoes entering or sleep under a mosquito net
For further information on Ross River virus and ways to protect yourself against mosquitoes visit Mosquito borne diseases.
