THE North Coast Public Health Unit is reminding residents and visitors to protect themselves against mosquitoes.
Public Health Unit Director Paul Corben said mosquito numbers had increased due to the amount of wet weather this year.
“It is expected that as winter approaches and temperatures drop, mosquito numbers will decrease, however, breeding is ongoing and there is still a risk of being bitten,” Mr Corben said.
Ross River and Barmah Forest viruses are common on the Mid North Coast and are transmitted by infected mosquitoes that breed in flooded, grassy and swampy areas and around waterways.
“Preventing these viruses depends on avoiding mosquito bites, especially when mosquitoes are most active,” Mr Corben said.
Simple steps to avoid being bitten
- When outside cover up as much as possible with light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing and covered footwear.
- Use an effective repellent on all exposed skin. Re-apply repellent within a few hours, as protection wears off with perspiration. The best mosquito repellents contain Diethyl Toluamide (DEET) or Picaridin.
- Light mosquito coils or use vapourising mats indoors. Devices that use light to attract and electrocute insects are not effective.
- Cover all windows, doors, vents and other entrances with insect screens.
- When camping, use flyscreens on caravans and tents or sleep under mosquito nets.
