The Queensland Health authorities have issued warnings to residents and tourists in the Emerald region regarding mosquitoes, biting midges (commonly known as sand flies) and black flies in areas affected by flooding. The Council insect control programs are helping with reducing the number of insects, say authorities but people still need to protect themselves to reduce the risk of being bitten in the next few weeks.
According to Central Queensland Public Health Unit Public Health Physician Dr James Smith people should wear loose, long-sleeved shirts and full-length trousers and use insect repellent on exposed skin. He said, “Mosquitoes can bite through tight clothing, so repellent is recommended even when wearing tight clothes… People should also check that screens on their doors and windows are intact and that mosquitoes are not breeding in their own yards… It’s best to avoid going outside when biting insects are most active, particularly immediately before and after sunrise, late afternoon and for two to three hours after dusk. Some insects will also bite during daylight hours… While black flies and biting midge don’t carry disease, their bite can cause itching, swelling around the bite area and in some cases blistering. They can also cause great annoyance to domestic animals and cattle… In addition, extra care should be taken to watch out for spiders and snakes, as they may seek dry ground during heavy rain and floods… People should watch out when walking around or moving boxes, shoes and the like, or around sheds – any place a snake or spider may find a dry environment.” He also said, “The general advice is that people stay out of flooded water as much as possible… Dirty flood water can turn a small scratch into a serious wound infection.”
The health authorities also advised regarding diarrhea and other stomach ailments that are common during floods and rains due to contaminated food and water.
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