Clean up around your home to stop the spread

The regional councils of Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday have once again collaborated to raise awareness about dengue fever through the Environmental Health Whitsunday Isaac and Mackay (EHWIM) initiative.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said dengue mosquitoes, such as the Aedes aegypti species, bred in stagnant water around the home.

“To prevent a dengue outbreak, it’s important to empty water from pot plant bases, store items that can hold water in dry or covered spaces, dispose of rubbish around the home and clean out your gutters,” Mayor Williamson said.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Julie Hall emphasised the importance of residents being familiar with the warning signs of dengue fever.

“Symptoms of dengue fever include headaches, fevers, aches and pains, nausea, vomiting, and in rare cases, fatality,” Mayor Hall said.

“If you suspect you may have dengue fever, please seek immediate medical attention,” she said.

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Anne Baker urged residents in mosquito-prone areas to take precautions against mosquito bites.

“There are a number of ways to reduce your risk of being bitten, including wearing protective clothing, using effective insect repellent, checking window and door screens for holes and applying surface spray at entry points to deter insects,” Mayor Baker said.

As part of the initiative, residents have the chance to win one of five $100 Porters Mitre 10 vouchers by participating in the dengue quiz at www.mackay.qld.gov.au/dengue.

The quiz is open to residents in Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regional council areas, with entries closing at 5pm on Sunday, March 10.

For additional dengue prevention tips, residents are encouraged to visit www.health.qld.gov.au/dengue.