With heavy rain battering the Central Highlands region recently, residents are once again being urged to take action to protect themselves against mosquitoes.
‘We all have a part to play to help reduce mosquito numbers in our community, particularly as we come into summer and our chance of rainfall increases,’ Mayor Cr Kerry Hayes said.
‘It’s as easy as covering up, using repellent and, most importantly, cleaning up areas at home or work that can hold water.’
Cr Hayes said council had developed a new mosquito management plan, outlining strategies to help control and manage the pest insect.
‘As part of this, staff from council’s Health Department will be out and about speaking to individual householders about how they can reduce the opportunity for mosquitoes to breed on their property,’ he said.
‘The mosquitoes that breed near people are the ones that have the potential to carry mosquito borne disease, so it’s particularly important to regularly check around your home for stagnant water.’
He said residents should inspect all containers that can hold water at least weekly, including loose tyres, bird baths, pot-plant bases, the plant itself – such as bromeliads – rainwater tank screens, gutters and empty buckets.
Cr Hayes also asked residents to report unusually high mosquito infestations to council immediately by calling 1300 242 686.
‘Council only fogs when mosquito numbers reach a level of concern,’ he said.
‘This is determined by mosquito trapping results and verified complaint levels.’
If the decision is made to fog, residents will be given three days’ notice.
For more information on mosquitoes visit www.health.qld.gov.au