Following confirmation from Queensland Health that two cases of dengue fever have been identified in Port Douglas, Cairns Regional Council is urging residents not to lower their guard in defending against the mosquito-borne disease.

As at noon yesterday, a total of 64 cases had been confirmed within the Cairns region, and 'Dengue Zone' signs had been erected at Pecten Avenue in Four Mile while Council inspected and sprayed properties.

Council staff are authorised to enter unlocked yards of private property in order to identify possible mosquito breeding sites and use insect spray, if necessary.

Residents are urged to comply with directions from Council staff in relation to the elimination of mosquito breeding sites. Fines can apply for failure to comply.

Members of the public are being urged to contribute to the effort to stop dengue spreading by conducting regular inspections of their own yards and by wearing insect repellent, particularly during the day.

Accommodation providers and other businesses in the Port Douglas and Cairns areas are also asked to regularly check around their premises for potential breeding sites.

The Aedes aegypti mosquito – known as the dengue mosquito – is most active during the day, rather than in the evenings like other species.

They often hide under lounges, beds or behind curtains and surface sprays should be used in these areas. Dengue mosquitos breed in small amounts of clean, still water found in and around homes. They do not breed around rivers or swamps.

Symptoms of dengue fever can include sudden onset of fever, intense headache and pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhoea, skin rash and fatigue.

Anyone who does suspect they may be experiencing symptoms of dengue fever should seek medical attention.

For more information on dengue fever and tips on protecting yourself and your home, visit www.cairns.qld.gov.au or www.health.qld.gov.au/dengue