Drones to Combat Mosquito-Borne Diseases in Greater Geelong

A new council program utilizing drones is underway in the City of Greater Geelong to combat mosquito-borne diseases that can have severe and long-term consequences on people's lives. The program aims to prevent Ross River virus, Barmah Forest virus, and Murray Valley encephalitis by treating the region's wetlands with targeted aerial applications. Wes Cusworth, a resident who contracted Ross River virus in 2000, shares his personal story of the devastating impact of the disease, which led to chronic fatigue, swollen joints, and a significant depressive episode.

Key Takeaways:

• The City of Greater Geelong's mosquito management program is restarting aerial treatments by drone of the region's wetlands ahead of breeding season, focusing on preventing Ross River virus, Barmah Forest virus, and Murray Valley encephalitis.
• The program will utilize an agricultural drone for targeted application, reducing the amount of product used and minimizing environmental impact.
• The treatment must be conducted before the breeding season to prevent adult mosquitoes from emerging from water and flying into populated areas.
• A 2020 senate inquiry found no evidence of a higher rate of cancer overall in any areas of the Bellarine Peninsula, despite concerns linked to chemicals from mosquito treatments.
• The City of Greater Geelong is the only Local Government Area in Victoria to use drones to control mosquito populations.
• The program prioritizes safety and was subject to a rigorous application process over five years.
• Wes Cusworth, a resident who contracted Ross River virus in 2000, shares his personal story of the disease's impact, including chronic fatigue, swollen joints, and a significant depressive episode.
• The program aims to protect residents and prevent the spread of mosquito-borne diseases, which can cause severe illness and long-term health consequences.

Statistics:

• The City of Greater Geelong is the only Local Government Area in Victoria to use drones to control mosquito populations. (Source: Geelong Advertiser)
• A 2020 senate inquiry found no evidence of a higher rate of cancer overall in any areas of the Bellarine Peninsula. (Source: Geelong Advertiser)
• The treatment must be conducted before the breeding season, typically during the wet season. (Source: Geelong Advertiser)
• The program utilizes an agricultural drone for targeted application, reducing the amount of product used and minimizing environmental impact. (Source: Geelong Advertiser)

Sources:

• Geelong Advertiser
• Stay Informed Geelong Advertiser
• william.keech@news.com.au