Mosquito-Borne Diseases

Mosquito-Borne Diseases

Preparing for summer fun means preparing for mosquito season!

Warm weather and outdoor activities are what make summer in northern Victoria great — but it’s also when mosquitoes are most active. Some mosquitoes can carry viruses that cause illness in people, known as mosquito-borne diseases.

While Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) is one of the better-known mosquito-borne diseases, other viruses — such as Ross River virus and Barmah Forest virus — also circulate in Victoria, especially after heavy rainfall or flooding.

Most mosquito bites cause only mild irritation, but it’s important to stay aware and take steps to avoid bites and reduce breeding around your home.

How to Protect Yourself and Your Family

You can reduce your risk of mosquito bites and mosquito-borne disease by:

✅ Using insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
✅ Covering up with long, loose-fitting clothing when outdoors.
✅ Avoiding peak mosquito times — particularly dawn and dusk.
✅ Using flyscreens on doors and windows to keep mosquitoes out.
✅ Removing standing water from buckets, birdbaths, pot saucers and gutters to stop mosquitoes breeding.
✅ Protecting kids and babies with mosquito nets, pram covers, and child-safe repellents.

Why It Matters

Mosquito-borne diseases can cause a range of symptoms such as fever, tiredness, joint pain, and rash.
Most people recover fully, but symptoms can last weeks or months.
In rare cases, some infections like JEV can lead to serious illness.

When to Seek Medical Advice

See your GP or local healthcare provider if you develop symptoms such as:

• Fever, headache or tiredness
• Muscle or joint pain
• Rash
• Nausea or vomiting

If symptoms are severe — such as confusion, neck stiffness, or seizures — seek urgent medical attention.

Stay Informed This Mosquito Season

Keep up to date with local health alerts and mosquito activity:
🌐 GVPHU – Facebook

🌐 Victorian Department of Health – Mosquito-borne diseases
🌐 Better Health Channel – Mosquito-borne diseases

Follow GV Health Public Health Unit on social media for local updates and tips to help you and your community stay safe this summer.