With high temperatures, significant rainfall, potential flooding and more than 300 mosquito species, the Australian summer is a hotspot for mosquito-borne diseases.
While mosquitoes start to breed throughout spring and autumn, they remain active throughout the whole year, particularly in the northern parts of Australia.
For those employed in the agriculture sector, Australia’s unique climate can put them at risk of contracting mosquito-borne illnesses such as Ross River virus, Barmah Forest virus, and Dengue fever. It is crucial for workers to take measures to safeguard their health while on the job, especially for those with outdoor duties or who work in areas with a heightened risk of exposure.
At Agri Labour Australia, we go above and beyond to ensure that our clients have put in place proper preventive measures before sending workers to high-risk mosquito environments. This includes eliminating potential breeding sites, providing personal protective equipment like clothing and insect repellent, and training workers on how to protect themselves from these diseases.
To further minimise the risk of exposure, it is important to restrict access to open containers or bodies of water, as they provide the ideal habitat for mosquitoes to breed.
With these measures in place, workers in the agriculture industry can have peace of mind and feel confident in their safety while on the job.
Candidates can take several simple steps to protect themselves from mosquito-borne illnesses. These include keeping windows and doors closed and using insect screens, wearing light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing that covers the arms and legs, and using mosquito repellent sprays and coils.
Our dedicated Account Managers regularly visit work sites and engage in safety conversations with workers to educate them about the potential risks associated with working in specific environments. This allows for proactive measures to be taken to mitigate the risk of exposure and promote a safe and healthy work environment.
