SA: Rural areas warned about Ross River virus

AAP General News (Australia)
12-17-2000
SA: Rural areas warned about Ross River virus

ADELAIDE, Dec 17 AAP - An electronic media campaign warning people about the dangers
of mosquito-borne Ross River virus has been launched by the South Australian Government.

The TV and radio commercials, with the headline Don't Let the Bloodsuckers Bite, are
targeting rural and regional communities in South Australia.

Large numbers of mosquitoes have been detected in regional areas, heightening the risk
of the viral infection which can cause serious illness.

The symptoms associated with Ross River virus include joint swelling, muscle pains,
sweating, headaches and rashes.

Human Services Minister Dean Brown said the symptoms appear within three days of being
bitten by a mosquito.

"The danger period is January to May, especially in rural areas," he said.

Mr Brown said after a few weeks most of the symptoms generally disappeared. However,
Ross River virus was an unusual illness that could return for various periods of time.

"Some may suffer for months with joint pain and a small percentage of people will take
more than a year to fully recover," he said.

AAP bw/sub

KEYWORD: ROSS RIVER

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