Monitoring the menace: high numbers this mosquito season

Gympie Regional Council records higher than usual numbers of mosquitos this summer season and urges residents to be mosquito aware. 

Councils trapping and monitoring program is conducted fortnightly from November to May when mosquitos are most active. To-date, council has captured approximately 11,000 mosquitos across eight trap sites since November 2023. 

Environmental Health Coordinator, Nadia Bannerman, emphasized the importance of these monitoring programs, 

"The recent hot and wet weather conditions have provided the ideal conditions for mosquito breeding. Our trapping and monitoring efforts are fundamental in understanding the prevalence of mosquito-borne diseases within our region,

“We target locations with high mosquito activity, particularly in marshy wet areas where mosquitoes thrive. The saliva of the captured mosquitoes is then analysed in laboratories, allowing for the detection of viruses," she said.

Council monitors mosquitos for the presence of mosquito-borne illnesses such as Ross River Virus, Barmah Forest Virus, and Dengue Fever. 

Results of the councils most recent routine trapping returned two Ross River Virus detections in the Gympie region, the first for this summer season. Coupled with the recent spike in mosquitos carrying Ross River Virus in Southeast Queensland, Gympie Regional Council is encouraging residents to remember helpful tips to reduce mosquito activity around their homes.

Prevent Water Pooling: Mosquitoes lay their eggs in still water, so it's crucial to eliminate any sources of stagnant water around your property. This includes emptying water from containers such as watering cans, animal water bowls, pot plant saucers.

Inspect Garden Areas: Be mindful of plants like bromeliads that can collect water. Ensure that water isn't pooling on plant leaves or on the ground.

Clear Gutters Regularly: Gutters filled with leaves can harbor pools of water, providing a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Regularly clear your gutters to allow for proper drainage and drying.

Maintain Water Tanks: Check the inlets and outlets of your water tanks for any damage or tears in mesh screens. Consider installing a flush first device to prevent mosquitoes from breeding in tank water.

Protect Yourself Outdoors: When spending time outdoors at dusk and dawn, use mosquito repellent, wear protective loose clothing, or use mosquito coils to minimize exposure. 

For more information and tips for protecting your home against mosquitos, visit www.gympie.qld.gov.au/mosquitos

For information relating to symptoms of mosquito –borne illnesses, visit Queensland Health at www.health.qld.gov.au