General News
2 February, 2023
New warning on mozzies
Flooding and heavy rainfall have increased the risk of a range of mosquito-borne diseases in Victoria, including Japanese encephalitis (JE) and Murray Valley encephalitis (MVE).In an updated warning from Agriculture Victoria, people have been told...
Flooding and heavy rainfall have increased the risk of a range of mosquito-borne diseases in Victoria, including Japanese encephalitis (JE) and Murray Valley encephalitis (MVE).
In an updated warning from Agriculture Victoria, people have been told JE and MVE viruses can cause rare but potentially serious infections of the brain.
JE vaccine is recommended and available free-of-charge for priority groups, including Loddon residents.
Agriculture Victoria said yesterday that people who work or live on properties in northern Victoria may be at high risk of infection if they are bitten by infected mosquitoes, particularly people working or spending prolonged time outdoors in these regions.
Mosquito management on private property is the responsibility of the landowner or land occupier.
Avoiding mosquito bites is the most important way to prevent mosquito-borne diseases:
Wear long, loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing when outdoors. Cover up as much as possible.
Use mosquito repellent that contains picaridin or DEET on all exposed skin.
Limit outdoor activity if mosquitoes are about (particularly at dawn and dusk when they are most active).
Make sure accommodation is mosquito-proof (e.g. fitted with mosquito netting or screens).
Reduce stagnant water around your home, yard or other property where mosquitoes can breed, by draining or filling these areas with sand or soil where possible.
Provide information on preventing mosquito-borne diseases to your employees. Factsheets are available.
Consider whether mosquito control activities such as adulticiding, larviciding or removal of breeding sites on your property are required, and seek advice from a registered pest controller if needed.