Spring surge in Ross River virus cases
The Health Department has predicted a spring surge in cases of Ross River virus after its latest figures showed more than double the average cases in the past month.
According to the department, 31 Perth residents were diagnosed with the virus in the four weeks to August 19, more than double the average of 14 cases.
There were another eight cases diagnosed outside the Perth area.
Health Department entomologist Peter Neville said there had been more mosquitoes than usual in the past three years.
"We would well assume an increase in cases in the coming couple of months, especially in spring and summer," he said.
Dr Neville said it was unclear whether the Perth residents had contracted the virus at home.
Winter tourism spots, such as Broome, were also known for high mosquito numbers, he said.
Lorraine Featherston from Wembley showed symptoms a week after she was bitten in her backyard.
One of her feet swelled up and she had a fever and aching joints which lasted three months. "I remember getting out of bed one morning and I had the most awful pain," she said. "I felt like I'd broken my foot."
Seven months later, she is now still unable to fully move her fingers, is often tired and has had to postpone her university studies.
She said she had known little about the virus before she was bitten and her illness was a warning it was not limited to rural areas.
"It's just never occurred to me it could happen in the suburbs of Perth," she said.
Dr Neville said low rainfall at the start of winter could still stem the number of mosquitoes, which hatch when they are submerged in water.
Lower than average rainfall is believed to have led to an overall decrease in cases of Ross River virus over the past 12 months.
However, because of heavy falls in the South West where the virus is also prevalent, councils are monitoring mosquito numbers.
The Southern Saltmarsh mosquito spreads the virus throughout Perth. Dr Neville said the most "aggressive biters" were expected to surface in summer.
The department advises those concerned about mosquitoes to clear gutters and empty containers holding water, such as plant pot bases, to destroy breeding areas.
