I've been swatting Mozzies all day, when my fellow social board member Henrietta McAlister asked me to post the following mosquito reminder.

Mosquitoes are a part of life in Queensland. Council has notified that large numbers of mosquitoes have been detected and they are monitoring and treating in accessible public areas in this media release.

In previous years in the Sunshine Coast region the mosquito borne diseases Ross River Fever, Encephalitis and Barmah Forest have been notified. It is expected this year will again see a number of people suffering from these. Scientists and public health officials are predicting the incidence of mosquito borne diseases is likely to spread and numbers rise with climate change.

Using insect repellent and reducing breeding ponds will help to minimise the chances of catching these diseases.

Some tips for keeping insect numbers down around the house, workplace and recreation areas are:

• Flush water holding plants such as bromeliads with fresh water regularly during prolonged wet weather
• Clear roof gutters of leaves and other debris so that water doesn’t pool
• Remove from the yard all tins, jars, tyres and containers that may hold water
• Replace water in birdbaths and pet water bowls every week
• Keep fish and ornamental ponds stocked with fish and keep swimming pools chlorinated.
• Tip out pot plant saucers every week or fill them with sand
• Ensure the mesh on top of rainwater tanks is intact
• Put the lid down on public toilets
• Empty water from fallen palm fronds or other large leaves
• Check that garden and driveway water is draining properly

Ok, Henrietta, I will spring into action. But before I dare going outside: where is my insect repellent?

in the meantime here is the Don Spencer classic Ozzie Mozzie: