The most common mosquito-borne diseases in the Northern Rivers are Ross River virus and Barmah Forrest Virus. They are not fatal, but they can cause serious illness and have long-term health impacts. In 2020, the Northern NSW Local Health District reported 429 cases of Ross River virus. That is the second highest number of cases on record, up from an average of 135 cases a year over the last 30 years.
Ballina Shire Council's Environmental Health Officer, Kristy Bell, said the impacts of climate change and severe wet weather events are increasing the risks of mosquito-borne disease in our area. "Cases of Ross River virus disease are most commonly reported in late summer and early autumn, so it's important for the community to know what they can do to reduce risk," she said.