Backyard army to tackle spike in mosquito-borne diseases

09 February 2021

Free SMS program launched to wage region-wide fight against pest

Tweed Shire Council has joined with Northern Rivers councils and the North Coast Public Health Unit to launch the Tackling Mosquitoes Together campaign, aimed at reducing the risks of mosquito-borne disease and nuisance in the region.

Timed to coincide with the hot, wet weather of late summer – perfect breeding conditions for mosquitoes – the campaign invites residents to join a free SMS text message program which will see them receive helpful tips and reminders on how to protect themselves, their family and community from mosquitoes over the next 12 weeks.

The text messages include videos, images and common mozzie myth busters.

The campaign, launching across the region’s seven councils this week, comes as latest statistics show a significant spike in mosquito-borne diseases, particularly Ross River Virus, over the past 12 months.

Figures released by the Northern NSW Local Health District show 429 cases of Ross River Virus were reported in 2020 – the second highest annual number of cases on record. This is up from an average of 135 cases a year over the past 30 years.

Tweed Shire Council Environmental Health Officer Kelly Piazza, who is helping coordinate the campaign, said the impact of climate change and severe wet weather events were increasing the risks of mosquito-borne disease.

“Cases of mosquito-borne diseases, such as Ross River Virus, are most commonly reported in late summer and early autumn, so it’s important for the community to know what they can do, and to start taking action,” she said.

“While Tweed Shire Council undertakes an extensive program each year to combat mosquito breeding, particularly in low-lying, wet areas, every little bit counts. If we all do our bit in our own backyard, we can make a difference and help protect the community.”

Funded by the NSW Government and Local Government NSW, Tackling Mosquitoes Together has been co-designed with the community, councils and other key stakeholders, through a collaborative design process, with the aim of maximising community support and uptake for ongoing behavioural change.

The program encourages households to take action by reducing backyard mosquito breeding habitats and through personal protection.

A free gift bag is also available for pick-up from Council offices for those who sign up.

To find out more and sign up to the campaign, visit www.tacklingmosquitoestogether.com.au

Further information on Council’s mosquito program is available by visiting www.tweed.nsw.gov.au/NuisanceInsects or contacting Council on 02 6670 2400.

Downloads

Photo 1(JPG, 61KB)

Caption: A campaign has been launched to reduce the risks of mosquito-borne disease and nuisance in the Northern Rivers.