We’re being asked to add the removal of mozzie breeding sites to our weekend jobs list this summer, in an effort to stop mosquito-borne diseases spreading in Townsville.
Townsville Public Health Unit director Dr Steven Donohue says around the home is one of the more common places for mosquito breeding grounds.
“Our most dangerous type of mosquito larvae grows around our homes, in any container or
junk holding rainwater,” Dr Donohue said.
“When they grow into mosquitoes they can carry dengue and other exotic viruses. They are
small and quiet, sneak inside and bite by stealth during the day.”
During the last wet season, Townsville recorded its first locally acquired cases of dengue
fever in more than a decade, with 16 confirmed cases.
Despite the successful releases of a Wolbachia-carrying mosquito strain from 2014 in order to limit dengue outbreaks, Dr Donohue says it only takes one to start to spread.
“While it has been effective, we also need the community to continue to help us,” he said.
“This wet season, look around for anything holding water. Tip it out, throw it out, or store it
somewhere dry to protect your family and neighbourhood.”
