As temperatures rise across Australia, so does the risk of mosquito-borne diseases. Mosquitoes thrive in warm, humid conditions, and some carry viruses and parasites that can cause serious illness, including:
- Barmah Forest virus
- Dengue virus
- Japanese encephalitis virus
- Murray Valley encephalitis virus
- Ross River virus.
You can become infected when a mosquito carrying a virus or parasite bites you.
Signs and symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on the disease, but common symptoms include:
Prevention tips
There is no specific treatment for mosquito-borne diseases, so prevention is your best protection.
Prevent mosquito bites this summer by:
- wearing long-sleeved, loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing and enclosed footwear – mosquitoes can bite through tight clothing
- using insect repellents that contain diethyltoluamide (DEET), picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) – always follow the instructions on the label
- stopping mosquitoes from getting inside – use insect screens on windows and doors
- using insecticide-treated bed nets when sleeping
- using mosquito coils outdoors and insecticide sprays – always follow the instructions on the label
- avoiding areas of high mosquito activity, if you can.
It’s also important to remove mosquito breeding areas around your home by:
- removing standing water where mosquitoes may breed – like in plant trays or saucers, buckets, tyres and emptying kiddie pools when they’re not in use
- regularly cleaning out permanent water containers – such as ponds and pet water bowls
- covering openings to water storage – like rainwater and septic tanks – with mosquito-proof mesh
- keeping gutters clear and lawns mowed.
Travel precautions
If you’re travelling overseas, speak with your health professional about vaccinations or medicines you may need, and check the Smartraveller advice for your destination.
Learn more
Find more information on mosquito-borne diseases and how to protect yourself.