Key Points
- Ross River virus is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito.
- Ross River virus disease (Ross River) cases have mainly been in Australia and Papua New Guinea.
- The best way to prevent Ross River is to protect yourself from mosquito bites.
Prevention tips
Ross River virus is spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes bite during the day and night.
There are no vaccines or medicines to prevent Ross River.
People who live in or travel to Australia and Papua New Guinea should take steps to prevent mosquito bites.
- Use insect repellent
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants
- Treat clothing and gear with 0.5% permethrin.
- Choose lodging with air conditioning or screens on windows and doors or use a mosquito net if you will be sleeping outdoors
Additional information about protecting yourself from mosquito bites while traveling is available on CDC Mosquitoes website.