Queensland's top doctor has warned residents the state is facing an increased risk of Ross River virus infections this year.
Queensland Health has tested hundreds of mosquito traps in recent weeks between Mackay and the state's south-east and found "very high" levels of the virus - even higher than what was seen during the 2019-20 outbreak.
"This season, more than 700 mosquito trap collections have been tested for Ross River virus," chief health officer Dr John Gerrard said.
"We have been notified of 31 positive mosquito traps across the state so far, which is more than the total we saw over the 2019-20 summer months when there was a significant Ross River virus outbreak.
"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. This is an indicator of elevated virus activity."
More than 3300 Ross River virus cases were recorded in 2020, far higher than the 699 last year.
Gerrard said Queensland appeared set for another high year of infections.
"Typically, Ross River virus infection begins to rise with the onset of rain and warm temperatures in December before peaking in February and March," he said.
"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."
While not a fatal disease, the joint pain and fatigue that comes with Ross River virus can take months to recover from. Other symptoms include fever, a rash and swollen joints.
Humans can catch the illness after being bitten by infected mosquitos, but person-to-person does not occur.
"There's no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment available for Ross River virus, so prevention is key," Gerrard said.
"The most important measure you can do against mosquito-borne disease is to take steps to avoid getting bitten.
"We know there's a lot of mosquitoes around at the moment due to the hot and wet conditions.
"Remember that any mosquito could be carrying Ross River virus – the more you get bitten, the more likely you will be infected."
