Prepare To Protect Yourself This Mosquito Season

The annoying buzz and itchy stings from mosquitoes are the least of your worries if you live in NSW.

Mosquitoes can also spread viruses such as Japanese encephalitis virus, Murray Valley encephalitis and Ross River virus to humans.

While serious illness and hospitalisation from these viruses are rare, the more mosquitoes, the greater the risk.

NSW Health lists almost every Local Government Area (LGA) in the Murrumbidgee as an area of high concern for Japanese encephalitis.

Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN) Acting Senior Manager Primary Care Engagement, Toni Preuss said with summer drawing nearer, it’s a good time to start taking steps to protect yourself from getting sick.

“The Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) was detected for the first time in NSW in February 2022,” Ms Preuss said.

“We’re encouraging Murrumbidgee residents to talk to their GP or pharmacist about getting a Japanese encephalitis vaccination.

“If you live in one of the affected LGAs and regularly spend time outdoors, you’ll be eligible for a free vaccination.

“Unfortunately, we don’t have vaccines for most of the mosquito-borne diseases found in NSW, so it’s especially important to protect yourself against being bitten in the first place.”

Covering up while outside is highly recommended.

Wear light, loose-fitting long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and covered footwear with socks.

Wear, and reapply, repellent containing DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

Apply sunscreen first, followed by repellent, to stay safe from the sun and mosquito bites.

Keep mosquitoes out by closing doors and windows when indoors or installing fly screens.

Remove items around your home that might collect water such as old tyres, children's toys, and empty pots to lower the chance of mosquitoes breeding.

Consider improving drainage around your home to ensure water doesn’t become stagnant.

“Following these simple steps will help protect you and your loved ones from mosquito bites and disease, so you can relax and enjoy the warmer weather ahead,” Ms Preuss said.

Head to www.health.nsw.gov.au/mosquitoes for the latest information on mosquitoes and bite prevention.

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