Summer, the sun, and the sound of mosquito wings

Summer brings sunshine and more fun outdoors, but unfortunately the buzzing of mosquitoes can be annoying. A recent outbreak of mosquito-borne Japanese encephalitis has raised alarm across northern Victoria, with health officials urging residents and visitors to be vigilant.

The discovery of two infected mosquitoes in Moira Shire, near Cobram and Yarrawonga, highlights the presence of this rare but potentially serious virus in inland riverine areas, particularly near the Murray River. did.

What is Japanese encephalitis?

Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that causes inflammation in the brain. Symptoms range from fever and headache to seizures, paralysis, and, in severe cases, coma. The virus is spread through the bites of infected mosquitoes, and the risk increases during warmer months when mosquito activity is at its peak.

In a recent article in the Herald Sun, Victoria's Chief Health Officer Dr. Tarun Weeramansuri emphasized the importance of prevention, saying, “The best defense is to limit outdoor exposure and reduce risk.” The best thing to do is to use insect repellents in areas with high concentrations of insects.” There is no specific treatment for the virus, but free vaccines are being offered to eligible people in 24 high-risk areas.

Tackling mosquito-borne diseases with innovation

Mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever kill hundreds of thousands of people each year. To combat this, Oxitec Australia, a joint venture between the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) and UK-based Oxitec Ltd, is introducing genetically modified mosquitoes (GMMs) to Australia.

These GMMs are non-biting male mosquitoes designed to produce only healthy non-biting male offspring. This innovative approach aims to reduce the spread of diseases such as dengue, Zika and chikungunya by reducing the number of female mosquitoes.

Professor Brett Sutton, CSIRO's Director of Health and Biosecurity, said in an interview on ABC's RN radio: “Mosquito-borne diseases have increased significantly in recent years due to climate change. By investing in new and innovative solutions, we can reduce the public health impact of these alien and invasive mosquito species.”

Expert advice for mosquito bites

We asked Dr. Daniel Engelman, a pediatrician and tropical disease researcher at Northern Health, for advice on mosquito bites.

“Most mosquito bites are very itchy but do not require treatment. In some cases, both adults and children may experience a major local reaction that is followed by swelling and pain. In some cases, the bite is It can become infected and show signs such as redness, swelling, warmth, and crusting,” he explains.

Signs of serious illness:

• heat
• vomiting
• progressive rash
• joint pain

“If you notice any of these signs, seek medical attention at your local GP, urgent care center or Victoria's virtual emergency department,” advises Dr Engelman.

Tips for surviving summer without appetite

Avoid mosquito bites and enjoy summer with these simple strategies.

• Apply repellent regularly and evenly to all exposed skin (over sunscreen)
• Wear long, loose, light-colored clothing and closed shoes.
• Empty or remove buckets and containers around your home to reduce mosquito breeding.

For itchy stings:

• Apply a cool pack or take a cold bath
• Use lotions or topical sprays to relieve itching
• If the itching is severe and affects your sleep, consider using an oral antihistamine.
• Use techniques to distract your child and keep nails short to prevent scratching.

The best way to avoid mosquito-borne diseases is to avoid mosquito bites. For more mosquito control tips and resources, visit: Victoria Health's mosquito control guide.