This has prompted a warning from Public Health director Tracey Oakman. 

She said mosquito number had been lower than this time last year, however, with the water lying around now after last weekends rain, numbers are expected to increase rapidly. 

“Now is a good time to prepare your home.  Check your window and door screens and get them repaired if there are any tears in them.  Also reduce places mosquitos can breed by emptying out any containers lying around with water in them,” said Mrs Oakman.

“Every year the Public Health Unit received notifications of local residents contracting Ross River Virus and Barmah Forrest Virus. These viruses cause persistent and debilitating symptoms such as joint aches and pains, fever, chills, headache and sometimes a rash. The rash usually disappears after seven to 10 days.”