Warning for ‘debilitating’ mosquito virus

The Ross River virus that causes fatigue, joint pain and rashes has been detected in Brisbane mosquitoes following recent downpours in the state.

The virus was detected on Thursday through a mosquito trap surveillance program that uses honey to collect mosquito saliva.

Queensland Health has urged residents to avoid going outside during dawn and dusk when the insects are most active.

The warning comes after heavy rain and strong winds ripped through Queensland this week.

Metro North public health unit entomologist Jonathan Darbro said the virus could be transmitted to humans through a bloodsucking bite.

“By identifying the virus early through technology, we can educate the community and potentially prevent Ross River virus infection.”

There are no vaccines against the virus, with symptoms occurring between three and 11 days after being bitten.

In some incidents, the recovery time can take up to six months.

North Queensland MP Les Walker told the Australian Associated Press that he still suffered from symptoms decades after being diagnosed.

“It lingers on and manifests into joint fatigue and arthritis. I get joint pain from time to time,” he said.

“It gets worse the older you get. It‘s a shocking, debilitating disease. You get quite ill.”

Residents are encouraged to wear long-sleeved clothing and wear mosquito repellent as a preventive.