Defend yourself against dengue MACKAY, Isaac and Whitsunday councils have once again joined forces to encourage residents to protect themselves against dengue mosquitoes. With 153 confirmed cases of dengue in Queensland last summer, Mackay Regional Council Health and Regulatory Services portfolio councillor Laurence Bonaventura encouraged residents to familiarise themselves with the warning signs of dengue. “The symptoms of dengue fever include headaches, fevers, aches and pains, nausea, vomiting and, in some cases, can result in death.” Cr Bonaventura said preventing dengue at the source was the key to avoiding an outbreak in our region. “Tip out any water in pot plant bases and containers, store items that can hold water in a dry spot or undercover, throw out any rubbish lying around and clean out your gutters,” he said. Isaac Regional Council Mayor Anne Baker said a few minutes spent cleaning up your backyard could help prevent the spread of dengue mosquitoes. “Dengue mosquitoes only need a small amount of water to breed in,” Mayor Baker said. “We’re encouraging residents and businesses to empty all their pot plant trays and containers holding water once a week.” Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Jenny Whitney said residents that are in an area prone to mosquitos should take adequate steps to protect themselves from being bitten. “When outdoors make sure you wear long sleeves, trousers, a hat and use an effective insect repellent,” Mayor Whitney said. “If you start to experience headaches, fevers, aches and pains and vomiting see your doctor immediately.” For further dengue prevention tips visit your local council’s website mackay.qld.gov.au/dengue or Queensland Health’s website health.qld.gov.au/dengue.
Posted on: Tue, 20 Jan 2015 06:41:38 +0000
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