Wagga Wagga City Council is encouraging the community to ‘Beat the Bite!’ this summer and reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.
Council’s Environmental Health Coordinator Sharomi Dayanand said with support from NSW Health, the ‘Beat the Bite’ mosquito bite prevention campaign is on again this summer.
“As part of the awareness drive to help the community keep safe, Council is distributing free mosquito repellents at public events,” Ms Dayanand said.
“Council is pleased to announce the Riverina Conservatorium of Music is helping out by distributing mosquito repellents to the public attending the event Christmas with the Con on Saturday 14 December.”
Ms Dayanand said warmer weather and high rainfall create ideal conditions for mosquitoes.
“Some mosquitoes can transmit viruses that can cause rare but serious diseases including Japanese encephalitis, Murray Valley encephalitis, Ross River and Barmah Forest virus.
“It’s important to remember there are a few simple things everyone can do to reduce the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes.
“Spray mosquito repellent onto any exposed skin after you apply your sunscreen and make carrying the repellent a habit when you go outdoors.”
Ms Dayanand said it was also important to wear long, loose fitting and light-coloured clothing when outside and, if possible, stay indoors during the peak mosquito times of dawn and dusk.
“You can also minimise the risk of mosquito bites by eliminating potential mosquito breeding sites around your home, including removing standing water from puddles on the ground or water accumulated in containers.”
Council welcomes requests from outdoor event organizers to provide free mosquito repellents for their summer events, subject to availability. To arrange pick-up, please contact the Council’s Environmental Health Officer Uvindu Warnakulasooriya on 1300 292 442.
