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ROSS RIVER FEVER: ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW

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What is Ross River fever and how can you address its symptoms and long-term effects? Read below and equip yourself with the knowledge to protect your family from illness. This article contains general advice only and is not a substitute for medical advice.  Always seek a professional health care opinion.

What is Ross River fever?

The Ross River fever is a viral illness. This illness is spread primarily via the bite of infected mosquitoes. While several instances of the virus have been recorded all over the country, it was first identified in mosquitoes near Townsville’s Ross River in Queensland, hence the name.

Where does the Ross River fever virus occur in Australia?

Among the 4000 Ross River fever infections recorded yearly in Australia. These infections usually happen during the first half of the year, from January until April, as this is when mosquitoes are most common. Those who live in warm and humid areas or are near bodies of water are the ones who are most likely to get infected. The factors that affect these areas (rainfall, tides and temperature) make them a prime spot for mosquito breeding.

What are the symptoms of Ross River fever?

Symptoms usually appear within seven to nine days of being bitten by an infected mosquito. They can include:

  • Flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, headaches and aches and pains in the muscles and joints
  • Swollen or stiff joints
  • General feelings of nausea, fatigue or weakness
  • Rash on the body, arms or legs (a rash from the Ross River virus is usually a raised red rash on the torso and limbs)

The majority of people will completely recover within six weeks. Others may experience the long-term effects of Ross River fever such as joint pain or tiredness for months.

However, many people (particularly children) will never actually develop symptoms.

ross-river-rash
Rash from Ross River Fever

What causes Ross River fever?

The virus can only be caught via mosquito bites; therefore it is not contagious. It’s usually found in mammals such as kangaroos, wallabies, rodents, birds, bats and horses. It can also be spread when female mosquitoes feed on an infected animal’s blood. From there, other animals can catch it when that mosquito passes it onto others by biting and feeding on their blood.

Once the Ross River fever virus enters the human bloodstream, it reproduces itself in blood cells and builds up in the muscles, joints and skin, which leads to the symptoms of infection.

How do you prevent Ross River fever?

There is no vaccine available yet against Ross River Fever.

So protecting yourself and your family from mosquito bites is even more critical in preventing disease. Here are some tips you can follow to do so:

  • Avoid known mosquito-infested areas, particularly at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active
  • When outdoors, cover as much skin as possible with light-coloured, loose fitting clothing and covered footwear
  • Use an effective repellent on all exposed skin, and be sure to reapply regularly as protection wears off from perspiration
  • Cover your clothes with a fabric spray repellent as mosquitoes can bite through material
  • Use mosquito coils outdoors and liquid vaporisers
  • Cover all windows, doors and vents with insect screens
  • Use screened tents when camping, or sleep under a mosquito net to protect from mozzies at night

Is there a treatment for Ross River fever?

Unfortunately as there is no specific treatment or cure for Ross River virus, doctors can only advise on treatment to relieve symptoms such as aches, pains or swelling. These treatment methods may include aspirin, plenty of bed rest, and avoiding alcohol and excessive physical activity.

Knowing how to get rid of mosquitoes is a great way to help avoid Ross River fever and its complications. Once you know that and why mosquitoes bite, you can come up with a near foolproof way to protect yourself and your family from mosquitoes and other pests in your home.

Disclaimer: Mortein does not make any warranty that by using these products you will not contract the diseases referred to in this site. Use Mortein as part of a complete preventative plan and please still take caution. Seek a medical professional for further advice in regards to the above, especially if visiting prone areas.

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