Residents in Kwinana have been told to take extra precautions as Ross River virus has been detected in mosquitos in the area.
The virus has been found in mosquitoes in the The Spectacles in the City of Kwinana for the first time this year through the Department of Health's mosquito disease surveillance program.
City of Kwinana Mayor Peter Feasey said the virus activity is likely a result of the warmer water temperatures, which favours mosquito breeding.
“People need to be actively protecting themselves from mosquito bites,” Mr Feasey said.
“During warm weather mosquitoes are most active at dawn and early evening, which is also when people are likely to be spending more time outside.
“Mosquito management is being undertaken by the City in areas with a recognised risk of Ross River virus activity."
The last Ross River warning from WA Health was in August last year when the virus was found in mosquitoes in the South West for the first time in two years.
Symptoms of Ross River virus include painful or swollen joints, sore muscles, skin rash, fever, fatigue, and headaches.
People are encouraged to take the following precautions to prevent mosquito bites:
- Avoid outdoor exposure, particularly at dawn and early evening.
- Wear protective clothing when outdoors.
- Apply an effective personal mosquito repellent.
- Remove water holding containers from around the home and garden to ensure mosquitoes do not breed in your own backyard.
- Use mosquito coils and mosquito lanterns in outdoor areas around houses.
- Ensure infants and children are adequately protected against mosquito bites.
- Ensure insect screens are installed and in good condition on houses.
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