A comprehensive mosquito control program instigated by Bundaberg Regional Council is now completed although Council will remain wary of potential outbreaks across the region.
Council’s Health & Regulatory Services portfolio spokesperson, Cr. Wayne Honor said the heavy rainfall of the past month coupled with significantly high tides had produced ideal mosquito breeding conditions and this had led Council to mount a concerted control campaign.
“Our program included fogging and even some aerial control via helicopter drops of “baits”.
Cr. Honor said the assistance of the Australian Defence Force personnel and equipment when they were in Bundaberg coupled with the generosity of both Fraser Coast Regional Council and Brisbane City Council which had provided staff and equipment had been instrumental in the success of the vector control program.
“Their spirit of cooperation was greatly appreciated and a significant help in controlling what was a potentially major health issue for Council,” he said.
Council will now continue with monitoring and treatment of know areas where water ponds after rainfall events especially surrounding higher populated areas.
Council staff have treated a large number of areas with some of the products being used remaining active for up to 6-8 weeks. “If residents observe mosquito breeding in areas that are holding water they are encouraged to contact Council.”
“Residents may choose to have a barrier treatment completed of their dwellings by a private licensed pest control operator to reduce the number of adult Mosquitoes and Biting Midge present,” Cr. Honor.
“The focus for residents is to ensure there houses are screened effectively, that they keep their laws mowed, remove standing water from around their homes, avoid the peak biting times of dusk and dawn , where loose light coloured clothing, and use inspect repellent.”
“The message is Don’t Get Bitten and you won’t get Ross River,” he said.
Date: 25-02-2013