By Stephanie Holliday
MOSQUITO numbers can explode after floods and storms, due to standing water from heavy rainfall and flooding providing the perfect conditions for mosquito breeding. Increased numbers of mosquitoes lead to an increased risk of being bitten and contracting mosquito borne diseases.
To reduce the likelihood of them hanging around as much as possible, clean up around your house and yard following last week’s heavy rain. Remove any pools of standing water around your house and yard, including clearing debris from ditches, cutting small channels to help pooling water drain, and filling in holes.
Rain or floodwater may have also collected in containers and even toys around your yard, so make sure you empty and wipe them out and store them in a dry place or dispose of them responsibly.
Arboviruses are viruses transmitted by arthropods (arthropod-borne viruses). In Australia, the main arthropod vector is the mosquito. In Victoria, particularly regional areas, the main concerns are Murray Valley encephalitis, Ross River virus disease and further out, Barmah Forest virus disease.
Be vigilant in the next couple of weeks by using mosquito repellent, avoiding outdoor activities at dawn and dusk where possible, and wearing loose fitting clothes that cover your skin.
