Australia's health authorities has warned the public against the dangers of mosquito borne diseases in flood areas due to favourable breeding conditions.

With the record breaking rainfall the state has received over the past several months mosquito numbers are on the increase and people need to take precautions to protect themselves against mosquito bites.

The Barmah Forest virus is not fatal, but it can cause persistent and debilitating symptoms such as aches and pains in joints, fever, chills, headache and sometimes a rash.

There is no specific treatment for Barmah Forest virus, prevention depends on avoiding mosquito bites, especially in the summer and autumn months.

Minimise the Risk

Methods for avoiding mosquito bites include:

  • Avoiding being outside unprotected before dawn and after dusk
  • Avoiding known high risk breeding sites, including marsh areas
  • When outside, wear loose fitting, light coloured clothes that cover arms and legs
  • Using an insect repellent that contains the chemical DEET or picaridin on exposed skin
  • Fitting fly screens at all windows and doors and keeping those in good repair
  • If mosquitos are inside, using a knockdown insecticide
  • Ensure that there are no pools of water around where mosquitos can breed, for example undrained pot plants, blocked gutters and empty containers.