Phones swat virus-bearing mozzies

SMS messages delivered to local residents’ phones are a new public health strategy to help reduce the likelihood of people contracting the debilitating, mosquito-borne Ross River and Barmah Forest Viruses.

Northern Rivers councils have teamed up with the North Coast Public Health Unit to launch a campaign dubbed ‘Tackling Mosquitoes Together’, which focuses on delivering free text messages offering tips and tools for protection.

The initiative is being offered through the website www. tacklingmosquitoestogether.com.au. It

is prompted by the high number of virus notifications in recent times. Byron Shire Council’s Team Leader Environmental Health, Enzo Picerni said 429 cases of Ross River Virus were reported last year by the Northern NSW LHD, the second highest number on record, up from an average of 135 cases a year over the last 30 years.

Ross River virus is named after the Ross River in Townsville, while Barmah Forest Virus was first identified at the opposite end of the country, in northern sub-tropical Victoria. There is no vaccine or treatment for either disease – those afflicted must wait it out, suffering from a range of symptoms that may include joint inflammation and pain, fatigue and muscle aches, and rash. These can be persistent, and even recur over years. Those joining the SMS program will receive advice on protection against mosquitoes as well as an education pack and mozzie repellent. The text messages include videos, images and mozzie myth busters, as well as information on seasonal and weather factors, including tides and rainfall events to help participants reduce risks at the most effective time.

Late summer and early autumn is the peak period for infection, and Northern Rivers residents are being encouraged to wear long, loose fitting clothing, especially at dawn and dusk, and to take action by reducing backyard mosquito breeding habitats.

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Ballina Day Surgery is a dedicated day procedure centre offering the Northern Rivers community a friendly and comfortable environment for a wide range of procedures with the very latest in medical equipment. Our experienced and caring specialists and staff are committed to providing an excellent standard of service, with patient care and comfort a top priority and would like to warmly welcome patients and their families to the centre. For more information on our specialists or for any admission enquiries, please contact one of our friendly staff or visit our website.

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