Message from
Nurse Janice
Health and Mosquitoes
Periods of heavy rainfall or floods can lead to ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes, even in non-tropical areas. Mozzies breed in warm, stagnant water – thousands can breed in small quantities of water in just 5-7 days
These conditions have led to an increase in mosquito numbers, and we have large numbers of mosquitoes around Wedderburn College
In Australia, some mosquitoes carry diseases which can result in life threatening diseases such as:
Murray Valley encephalitis virus,
All of these can be passed on through mosquito bites.
To avoid mosquito bites, wear long pants, socks and long-sleeved shirts, and apply insect repellent.
Wedderburn College does not supply repellent for student use. There are a variety of products available. If you send repellent to school, please make sure it is named and not an aerosol as these can cause problems for students and staff with asthma.
Protect yourself
If you are looking for something to apply directly on your skin, sprays and lotions containing DEET are very powerful at keeping mozzies at bay. Or you could create your own natural lotion mixing olive oil and essential oil of either peppermint, lavender or eucalyptus and dab that on your skin. Natural Patches, Wrist bands and repellents you can spray on clothes are also available.
Repel mosquitoes naturally
There are many scented plants said to deter these pesky insects so plant around entrances and outdoor seating areas.
Basil, lemon balm, peppermint, lavender, marigold, rosemary and eucalyptus are some of the best choices to discourage mozzies.
You can also scrunch up the leaves and rub their oils on your skin. If you are barbecuing, put a few sprigs of rosemary on the grill, and the scent will chase mosquitos away.
Janice Deocampo
School Nurse