Geelong's Bold Move: Drones Take Flight in Mosquito Management
The City of Greater Geelong is gearing up for the mosquito breeding season with an innovative approach to pest control. Starting its mosquito management program, the city aims to tackle the issue head-on, especially with the potential health risks associated with local mosquito species. These mosquitoes are known carriers of the Ross River virus, Barmah Forest virus, and Murray Valley encephalitis, which can lead to severe illnesses and long-term health complications.
To combat this, the city will focus on mosquito breeding sites within the region's internationally recognized Ramsar wetlands. This targeted approach is a significant step forward, as it directly addresses the root cause of the problem. Geelong's unique strategy involves the use of drones, making it the only Victorian municipality to employ this technology for mosquito control.
Mayor Stretch Kontelj emphasizes the city's commitment to public health and safety. The drone treatment and ground treatment program underwent a rigorous five-year application process to ensure effectiveness and minimize risks. Kontelj states, 'We're dedicated to minimizing pest and public health risks from mosquitoes within the legislative framework. Our priority is safety, and we've followed a meticulous process to achieve this.'
The community is also encouraged to play a role in mosquito prevention. Councilor Elise Wilkinson suggests simple yet effective measures: inspecting properties for still water, such as bird baths and pet dishes, and ensuring they are either emptied weekly or removed. Maintaining lawns and gardens to eliminate mosquito shelters and overturning boats or removing drain plugs are also recommended. Additionally, protecting oneself from mosquito bites by wearing light-colored clothing, using repellents with DEET or Picaridin, and avoiding outdoor activities at dawn and dusk can significantly reduce the risk.
As the city takes to the skies with its drone program, residents are reminded to maintain a safe distance from the mosquito management team for their well-being and the team's safety. This collaborative effort between the city and its citizens is a proactive approach to managing mosquito populations and ensuring a healthier environment for all.
