A surge in Ross River virus cases in the region has prompted a warning from health authorities for locals to protect themselves from mosquitoes.
The warning comes after 56 cases in Geelong and the Surf Coast so far in 2021, compared to 34 for all of 2020.
Wetter conditions this summer have increased mosquito breeding and biting in Geelong, and on the Surf Coast and Bellarine Peninsula, according to the Department of Health and Human Services.
The mosquito-borne disease can cause joint inflation and pain, fatigue, muscle aches, rashes, headaches, fever and swelling of the lymph nodes.
The symptoms normally appear between three and 21 days after infection. Most people recover from the disease in three to six months, but occasionally symptoms can last more than a year.
The department recommended locals wear long, loose fitting clothes if mosquitoes are around.
Authorities also recommended using mosquito repellents containing picaridin or DEET on all exposed skin and using sprays and plug-in vaporising devices indoors.
Locals can limit outdoor activity, especially in the hours before and after sunrise and sunset when most mosquitoes are more active.
There is no vaccine currently available commercially to protect against Ross River Virus disease.
