Mozzies suck, so cover up – updated strategy released to help you keep safe this summer

21 December 2009

A guide to avoiding mosquito bites and the debilitating conditions the pests pass from person to person has been released today by the Living with Mosquitoes partnership.

This inter-agency management strategy titled Living with Mosquitoes in the Lower Hunter and Mid-North Coast Regions, provides tips on how people living in these areas can keep themselves safe from severe, debilitating conditions spread by mosquitoes such as Ross River Virus and Barmah Forest Virus.

Hunter New England Population Health Environmental Health Manager Philippe Porigneaux said the new strategy gives up-to-date, in-depth information about mosquitoes in the region, their ideal breeding grounds and how you can protect yourself and your family from bites.

“Although there has been early seasonal mosquito activity this is expected to increase dramatically as we move into the wetter warmer period,” Mr Porigneaux said. “Already in 2009 there have been 97 Barmah Forest infections and 295 Ross River infections notified to Hunter New England Health from across the region - this is only the tip of the iceberg.

“Although the illness caused by the viruses is not fatal, it can cause persistent and debilitating symptoms such as aches and pains in joints, fever, chills, headache and sometimes a rash. The rash usually disappears after seven to 10 days. As there is no specific treatment for Barmah Forest or Ross River Virus, prevention depends on avoiding mosquito bites.

“As school holidays begin and we enjoy everything the coast has to offer, it’s important to use an insect repellent, that contains the chemical DEET or picaridin, on exposed skin. Wear loose fitting, light coloured clothes that cover your arms and legs.

“Don’t go near likely mosquito breeding sites, such as marshes, and avoid being outside unprotected before dawn and after dusk,” Mr Porigneaux said.

“This time of year, in the lead-up to Christmas, is an excellent opportunity to clean up around your home to reduce mosquito activity. Find any stagnant pools of water in places such as pot plants and tip them out, so they don’t provide a breeding ground in your back yard. Keep the fly screens on your windows and doors in good repair.”

For more information on how you can stay safe against mozzies this summer, find a list of all Living with Mosquitoes partners, and view the full strategy visit:
http://www.mosquitoes.nsw.gov.au

The Living with Mosquitoes partnership is chaired by NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet, Hunter Region and has representation from all levels of government and key non-governmental organisations in the region.

Contact: Emma Gibbs

Phone: 0428 114 767.