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Protect Yourself from Mosquito-borne Disease (a note from Catholic Ed Sandhurst)

The floods in Victoria pose an increase in mosquito breeding. Mosquitoes can carry a number of diseases that could make people very ill and, in severe cases, even cause death. It is anticipated that mosquito populations will increase significantly, and the levels will remain elevated through most of the summer. Mosquitoes do not breed in initial flood waters, they breed in warm stagnant water after flood water recedes. Mosquitoes can transmit a range of viruses. These viruses include RossRiver Fever, Barmah Forest Fever, Murray Valley Encephalitis; and Japanese Encephalitis Virus. 

Simple precautions help protect your community against mosquitoes and the diseases they may carry, including:

The most effective and simplest control is to avoid mosquito bites.

• Mosquitoes are most active around dusk and dawn, but can be active at other times, particularly in shady places.

• When mosquitoes are prevalent, seek shelter in an area protected with insect screens if possible.

• As much as possible try to wear long and loose-fitting clothes, avoid dark colours (they are more attractive to mosquitoes).

• Avoid perfumes and colognes (they attract mosquitoes). Use a repellent if in a mosquito prone area - one containing Picaridin or DEET 15-20% is best.