Make sure the mozzies miss you

After heavy spring rainfall, there are plenty of mozzies about this summer.

Did you know there are more than 275 species of mosquitoes found in Australia? Fortunately, only a few species bite humans, and fewer still are vectors of human diseases.

In Victoria, the most common viruses transmitted from mosquitoes to humans are Ross River and Barmah Forest virus.

Infections caused by Japanese encephalitis virus, Murray Valley encephalitis virus and Kunjin virus are rare, but do have the potential to cause severe disease.

Last year, there were 15 confirmed cases of Ross River virus on Phillip Island.

According to the Health Department there have been no notified cases of the virus this season, with the last case recorded in March this year.

The most effective way to reduce your risk of mosquito-borne diseases is by avoiding mosquito bites and removing mosquito breeding sites, such as stagnant water, from around your home.

Cover up, use repellent, clean up still water around your home and campsite, and use fly spray when eating or gathering outdoors.

Visit health.vic.gov.au for more information Mosquito-borne diseases.