Queensland regularly experiences floods, cyclones and heavy rain. After these events, pooling water in the environment can create breeding grounds for mosquitoes and black flies and increase the potential for exposure to insect bites and mosquito-borne viruses.
Mosquito-borne diseases caused by Dengue, Ross River and Barmah Forest viruses are reported annually in Queensland, with some diseases being more prevalent in North Queensland.
Whilst
black flies do not transmit diseases, allergic reactions and bacterial skin infections may occur from bites and scratching bite areas.
Reducing the risk of being bitten
To reduce the risk of students and staff being exposed to insect bites, schools are advised to inspect the grounds and work with their neighbouring landholders and local councils to remove potential breeding sites. During peak periods, staff and students should take appropriate steps to avoid insect bites, and if unwell following exposure to insect bites, seek prompt medical attention.
Queensland Health provides information and advice to assist in reducing the risk of individuals contracting mosquito-borne diseases by
removing potential breeding sites, suggesting simple methods to
prevent mosquito bites and providing specific information on
mosquito prevention in schools.
Schools in
Dengue or
Zika prone areas are advised to access information from their local
Queensland Health Public Health Unit for strategies to reduce exposure to mosquitoes.
Use of insect repellent at school
During peak periods, schools may recommend that students use an insect repellent during school hours to protect them from bites.
Prior to a student applying insect repellent at school, parental consent must be obtained and the school must ensure the student has used the repellent previously with no adverse reactions. A
written authority for the supply and use of insect repellent template is available for schools to adopt or adapt for this purpose.
Teachers are not required to apply insect repellent to all students. However, school staff should supervise younger students and can provide assistance to students who may be experiencing difficulty in applying the insect repellent. Personal insect repellents should only be used in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations noted on the product.
Parents should be notified immediately if any adverse reaction to insect repellent occurs after application.
Contacts
For further advice regarding insect bites and mosquito-borne viruses, contact
13 HEALTH (Phone 13 43 25 84) or your local
Queensland Health Public Health Unit.