NSW Health is encouraging Northern Beaches residents to protect themselves against mosquitoes following the detection of Barmah Forest virus at Narrabeen Lagoon.
The NSW Arbovirus Surveillance and Mosquito Monitoring Program recently detected the virus in mosquitoes trapped at Deep Creek and notified Manly Observer.
“These infections can cause symptoms including tiredness, rash, fever, and sore and swollen joints,” Dr Michael Staff, Director, Northern Sydney Local Health District Public Health Unit said.
“The symptoms usually resolve after several days, but some people may experience these symptoms for weeks or even months.”
Avoiding mosquito bites will be especially important until cooler weather brings an end to the mosquito-breeding season.
“Mosquitoes are very active in the early and late parts of the day so you need to make sure you protect yourself from being bitten by mosquitoes at these times,” Dr Staff said.
“Preventing infection with these viruses depends on avoiding mosquito bites, especially as the mosquitoes have become active after recent rain, warm days and high tides”, Dr Staff said.
A fact sheet is available here or on the NSW Health website.
Weekly reports are available during the arbovirus season from the New South Wales Arbovirus Surveillance and Mosquito Monitoring Program here.
