Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes pose a significant risk to public health. In some countries they carry diseases such as Malaria, Yellow Fever and Zika virus. These life-threatening diseases are not present in Victoria, however there have been some cases of Ross River virus, especially in the north after flooding. If you feel that you may have contracted a mosquito-borne disease, you should attend a general practitioner to seek further advice.

The public can protect themselves from mosquito-related health issues by preventing their breeding around your home. Mosquitoes breed in still and stagnant water such as ponds, buckets, bird baths, unused pools and pots, however any sort of sitting water can be a suitable breeding space for mosquitoes. Take a look around your home or work place for any water that does not dry out daily. By removing stagnant bodies of water, you can help prevent further breeding around your home or work place. Visit the Better Health Channel website for more information about protecting yourself from mosquito-borne disease.

You can also protect yourself from mosquitoes by:

• sealing your home with flywire screens and doors to stop them entering your home
• wearing long, loose fitting, light coloured clothing
• avoiding being outside at down or dusk
• using effective mosquito repellents (such as repellents containing DEET).

If you are concerned that someone around you is allowing the breeding of mosquitos on their land, contact us.