Test your dengue knowledge to win

Published: 20 Jan 2021

Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regional councils are calling on residents to test their dengue knowledge by completing an online quiz as part of an annual awareness campaign.

All those who enter the competition will go into the draw to win one of five $100 Porters Mitre 10 vouchers.

The annual dengue campaign is part of an EHWIM (Environmental Health Whitsunday Isaac and Mackay) initiative.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson urged residents to be vigilant after two positive dengue fever cases were recorded in Townsville last year and 13 cases were confirmed in Rockhampton the year before.

“We need everyone to do their part to prevent a dengue outbreak in our region,” he said.

“Dengue mosquitoes breed in stagnant water around the house.

“Residents should 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 their gutters.”

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Andrew Willcox said residents in areas 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,” he said.

“It is also a good idea to make sure your window and door screens do not have any tears in them to prevent mosquitoes from entering your house.

“And don’t forget to spray your house with insect repellent regularly.”

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Anne Baker encouraged residents to complete the online quiz to test their knowledge on dengue.

“Families can sit down and complete the quiz together and have a discussion about what they need to do around the house to help prevent the spread,” she said.

“Dengue mosquitoes only need a small amount of water to breed in, and it’s important to keep the area around your house clean so water doesn’t pool in areas and become stagnant.

“Dengue fever can be a life-threatening disease and the more you know about prevention, the less likely you are to contract it.”

Complete the quiz at www.mackay.qld.gov.au/dengue or visit the Queensland Health’s website www.health.qld.gov.au/dengue for more information about dengue fever.