HEALTH WARNING TO AVOID MOZZIES THESE HOLIDAYS Murrumbidgee Local Health District is warning residents to take extra precautions and protect themselves against mosquitoes if they plan on camping or barbequing outside over the Christmas break. Director Public Health Tracey Oakman said mosquitoes can carry human diseases like Ross River virus, Barmah Forest virus and Kunjin viruses. “People need to take steps to avoid mosquito bites. The last thing anyone wants for their Christmas holiday is to get sick,” Ms Oakman said. “These infections can cause symptoms including tiredness, rash, fever, and sore and swollen joints. 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 over the December-January period when people are enjoying outdoor activities such as camping or fishing in areas with high mosquito numbers. Mosquitoes that carry these viruses are usually most active in the hours after sunset and again around dawn. Simple steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes include: • Cover up as much as possible when outside with light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing and covered footwear. • Use an effective repellent on all exposed skin. Re-apply repellent within a few hours, as protection wears off from perspiration, particularly on hot nights. The best mosquito repellents contain Diethyl Toluamide (DEET) or Picaridin. • The stronger the concentration of an insect repellent, the less frequently it will need to be applied to stop mosquito bites. Repellents containing low concentrations of DEET or Picaridin provide shorter periods of protection so its important to read the product information. • Topical repellents are not recommended for use on children under three months of age. Use of physical barriers such as netting of prams, cots and play areas is preferred. • Repellents containing less than 10 per cent DEET or Picaridin are safe for older children...
Posted on: Tue, 09 Dec 2014 04:35:03 +0000
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