Recent king tides and the warm weather have created ideal conditions that have increased the prevalence of mosquitoes in and around Bundaberg region homes.
Bundaberg Regional Council’s Health & Regulatory Services portfolio spokesperson, Cr. Wayne Honor said environmental officers had identified a severe outbreak of Saltmarsh mosquitoes was imminent.
“Council environmental officers undertake a trapping program across the region and results for the coastal strip from Woodgate to Moore Park are quite alarming,” he said.
“While not all mosquitoes bite humans, Council has identified a marked increase in a Saltmarsh mosquito that is capable of transmitting diseases – such as Ross River Virus and Dog Heartworm,” said Cr. Honor.
“This mosquito can fly up to 50km from the breeding site and on strong winds travel even further. There are simple measures that can be employed to ensure some basic protection from all mosquitoes,” he said.
“Mosquitoes like to rest in shaded, leafy areas and are generally most active around dusk and dawn, but will bite at any time.”
- If camping make sure your tent is screened.
- At home check screens on doors and windows and if you don’t have screens sleep under a mosquito net.
- Barrier products are available that can kill adult mosquitoes. These can be used on foliage and structures – contact your local pest control operator for more information about this treatment.
- Don’t forget your pets – check that your dogs heartworm treatment is up to date.
Council is aware of the influx of mosquitoes and is striving to reduce the impact on the community. “When outside SLIP on loose light coloured clothing and SPRAY on a good insect repellant (containing DEET or picaridin) to reduce the SLAP and enjoy that great outdoors,” said Cr. Honor.
