Vol. 19 No. 17
FREE PUBLICATION
Wednesday, October 26, 2016
NITRO CIRCUS DETAILS INSIDE
Mozzies a threat A
BY DEAN LAWSON
n increase in mosquitoes in response to floodwater across the region has prompted health officials to warn people about a rising threat of mosquito-spread infections such as Ross River virus.
Wimmera Health Care Group infection-control nurse Rachel Baker said mosquitoes could spread a range of serious illnesses and urged people to try to avoid being bitten by the insects. Many people in Wimmera centres have noticed the prevalence of mosquitoes with the onset of daylight saving and while engaging in outdoor evening activities. Others have spoken of being set upon by the insects at any time of day. In February 2011, after the last Wimmera flood, a record number of people contracted Ross River virus across a Grampians health region. At the time, Department of Health figures for the region, which stretches from Bacchus Marsh to the South Australian border, showed 104 cases of Ross River from January 1 to February 22. “In light of the wet weather recently, it is understandable the mosquito population has risen and in line with that, the risk of mosquito-spread illnesses and disease has also risen,” Ms Baker said. “There are a range of illnesses that can be spread by mosquitoes. Obviously we are asking people to be careful, try not to be outside at dusk and dawn, wear loose longsleeve shirts and pants and wear mosquito repellent. “Where possible try to eliminate mosquitoes around your home by getting rid of stagnant water. “Illnesses such as Ross Rover virus are only spread by mosquitoes, not person to person, so avoiding mosquito bites is the key.” The health group has advised people to
IN THIS ISSUE
be vigilant with their health but avoid panicking if they suspect they might have Ross River or another mosquito-spread virus. It advised people to be aware of the potential to contract the virus and to seek treatment from their general practitioner. The affect of Ross River virus on individuals is highly variable. The infection is spread by mosquitoes from infected animals which research suggests involves animals such as kangaroos, wallabies and rodents. Joint inflammation and pain, fatigue and muscle aches are often symptoms of the disease. Some infected people also develop a rash. The rise in mosquito numbers and populations of other insect species across the region has quickly become apparent with the arrival of water, especially in areas that had previously been dry.
Widespread
Wimmera Catchment Management Authority chief executive David Brennan said damp conditions as well as water were conducive to a growth in mosquito numbers. “There are a lot of mosquitoes about and this growth is widespread across the region – from back-yard gardens to the back blocks,” he said. “People who are observing an increase in mosquito numbers will also see something similar with other species. It’s part of an overall boom in life and comes on the back of some areas receiving large amounts of rain, especially for September. “We also encourage people making the most of the changed environment such as going sight-seeking, fishing or yabbying to cover up and use repellent. “While they can present a health risk and are obviously annoying, it is also important to remember that they are providing a lot of food for a various species, particularly bats and a lot of aquatic species. Microbats would be gorging themselves at the moment.”
Spirits strong at German fest FESTIVAL FUN: The weather might have been cool but the conditions failed to dampen the spirits of the hundreds of people who attended the 2016 MIXX FM Wimmera German Fest at Horsham Showground on Saturday. From left, Kelly Schilling, Bonnie Severin, Maddy Clohesy and Ash Magor were among patrons who donned German outfits to get into the spirit of the day, which celebrated the region’s German heritage through music, food and cultural activities. Festival steering committee chairman Peter Daffy said the event was a success despite numbers being down from last year’s event. “We attribute the drop to the weather. It was 37 degrees last year and about 14 this year, but the people who were there had a great time,” he said. “People said the changes we made this year made the day more enjoyable. They included an outside stage for competitions, two local bands and children’s activities. “Thanks to everyone who supported the event. We are particularly grateful for the support of our major sponsor, MIXX FM.” Wimmera Health Care Group and Blue Ribbon Foundation’s Horsham branch ran the event to raise money for Wimmera Base Hospital’s emergency department.
• Mine project manager appointed • Dragons on the river • Cricket previews and reviews
artisanHP0809
Phone: 03 5382 1351 Read it online: www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au
HORSHAM
PLAZA K MART • SPOTLIGHT • THE REJECT SHOP NQR GROCERIES • SPECIALTY STORES WWW.HORSHAMPLAZA.COM.AU DARLOT ST. PH 5382 0912
AUDITED: 22,413 COPIES
October 2015 to March 2016
Source: AMAA; CAB Total Distribution Audit for further information visit www.auditedmedia.org.au
SIDEWALK SALE THIS FRIDAY AND SATURDAY ONLY WHILE STOCKS LAST
Conditions apply. While stocks last. Not valid with any other offer or voucher. October 28th and 29th, 2016 only.