Stay safe and healthy this summer

12 Dec 2024

These simple tips from NSW Health can make staying healthy this summer a breeze for students and families.

With school holidays just around the corner, NSW Health is encouraging everyone to follow simple steps and enjoy a healthy safe summer.

Keep mozzies away

Summer is mosquito season, and it’s important to protect yourself and your family from  Mosquito-borne diseases,  which can make you very sick.

NSW Health recommends you prevent mosquito bites whether enjoying your break at home or travelling.

• Spray up using a repellent.
• Cover up using loose, long-sleeved clothing and covered footwear and socks.
• Screen up and install fly screens on all doors and windows around your house.
• Clean up any containers with still water around your backyard (including toys and pet water bowls), as these are where mosquitos breed.

Mosquito-borne diseases

Mosquitoes can transmit serious diseases that are spread to humans through mosquito bites. A number of mosquito-borne viruses have been identified in NSW.

See  Mosquitoes are a Health Hazard  for more information on bite prevention and wound management.

Mosquito-borne diseases in NSW

Beat the heat

Extreme heat can be dangerous, particularly for babies, young children, pregnant people and older people. Planning for hot weather, including ways to keep cool and drink plenty of water can help keep you from getting very sick.

Avoid being outdoors in the hottest part of the day as much as possible. If you must go outside, seek shade or shelter. Limit physical activity and protect yourself from the sun by applying sunscreen and wearing sun-protective clothing, sunglasses and a wide brim hat.

Learn more about how to Beat the heat.

Be prepared for emergencies

Summer often means more bushfires, floods and severe storms. Preparing early can help keep your family and community safe.

Understanding local risk, whether at home or travelling, and knowing which emergency warnings to look for, can make a big difference. To learn more visit Get Ready NSW.

Bushfire smoke can also affect your health, particularly in children and people with existing health conditions. NSW Health provides advice around protecting yourself from Bushfires and bushfire smoke.

Other health advice

Visit the NSW Health website to learn more about how to have a  healthy safe summer,  including avoiding food poisoning, staying healthy overseas and keeping active.