November 25, 2020
South Burnett Regional Council is urging residents to take action to reduce the breeding of mosquitoes.
A Council spokesperson said mosquitoes can carry viruses such as Ross River Fever and Barmah Forest Virus and dogs can contract heartworm.
Earlier this year there was a spike in Ross River Fever cases across the Darling Downs Health Region, which includes the South Burnett.
Residents can help control mosquitoes around their homes by:
- Pot plant bases: Preferably dispose of the base altogether. Alternatively, empty and clean the base weekly or put sand in it to absorb the water.
- Tins, tyres, jars, toys and rubbish items: Any items left lying around the yard that hold water will breed mosquitoes. Store under cover and dispose of all unwanted items.
- Roof gutters: Clean out leaves and other debris regularly. Cut back and trim trees. Blocked gutters will breed mosquitoes.
- Bromeliads and other water holding plants: Other than removing the plants altogether use a high pressure hose to remove any mosquito larvae.
- Rainwater, wells and drums: Large water holding containers must be screened with wire gauze no coarser than 1mm mesh.
- Bird baths, fish ponds and ornamental ponds: Clean weekly to remove mosquito larvae. Keep Australian native fish in ponds.
- Swimming pools: Keep chlorinated and regularly operate the pool pump all year round.
- Drains or depressions: Maintain drains to allow for water flow. Fill in any depressions to prevent water ponding.
Related article: Spike In Ross River Virus
