Upsurge in Ross River set to spike

A potential explosion of Queenslanders becoming infected with a serious mosquitoborne disease is on the horizon, health authorities have warned, with people being told to protect themselves from getting bitten.

Chief health officer Dr John Gerrard revealed there had been a “very high” number of Ross River virus detections in mosquitoes across nine different council areas stretching from Mackay down to the South East.

And the number of infected mosquitoes – at 31 positive traps of the 700 tested across the state – is higher than what was detected during the horror 2019/2020 summer, which ultimately led to a whopping 3381 Ross River infections in 2020.

There were 699 cases of Ross River virus in 2023. As of the end of January, 64 people have been infected.

There is no cure or vaccine for Ross River virus, and while most people recover in a few weeks some people experience joint pain and fatigue months after infection.

“It’s concerning we are seeing such a high number of Ross River virus detections in mosquito populations through our surveillance program this early in the typical season, especially over such a widespread area,” Dr Gerrard said. “This is an indicator of elevated virus activity.

“Typically, Ross River virus infection begins to rise with the onset of rain and warm temperatures in December before peaking in February and March. It is also typical to see a significant number of Ross River virus cases every three to four years, so we are on track for a spike in cases.

“Given high mosquito numbers combined with these latest surveillance results, we know there is a heightened risk of human exposure to mosquitoes carrying this virus right across Queensland.”

Dr Gerrard said it was critical for people to take measures to protect themselves from mosquito bites and mosquitoborne diseases.

Symptoms of Ross River virus may include fever, swollen and painful joints and rash.