Fighting the Bite in Onslow

The Shire has been actively involved in working to combat the mosquito problem that has emerged in Onslow.

Onslow has a mosquito plan that has been developed and used over a number of years and which is normally quite effective in controlling the breeding cycle.  However, a number of recent factors have caused a substantial increase in the numbers of mosquitos in and around the town area.

The Shire’s Environmental Health team has conducted a detailed survey to establish the reason for this increase in numbers and has discovered an area that, up until now, was not a breeding site for mosquitos.  This location has become an ideal habitat to mosquitos due to the dredging operations which pumps water and sand into the site, which is adjacent to the Airport. This area is a heavily vegetated, has now become inundated with water thus creating an ideal breeding environment for mosquitos.  Upon recent investigation this previously empty location was found to contain an extreamly large number of mosquito larvae.

The area in question has now been treated with larvicide to eradicate the developing larvae.  Chemical control has been determined as a more effective way to treat the mosquitoes as it kills the larvae therefore presenting the growth into adult mosquitoes.

The Shire’s town maintenance team will continue with the fogging program throughout the Onslow streets, which will be carried out in the evenings or early mornings for at least 4 days a week,  weather permitting.

Mosquitoes can breed around your home. They will lay their eggs in fresh or salty water, and often in containers that hold water. Common breeding sites include pot plant drip trays, gutters, ponds, pet water bowls, old tyres, rubbish, containers and pools that are not well maintained.

Stop mosquitoes breeding around your home by following these simple steps:

Empty out or discard containers and rubbish that may hold water Clean out roof gutters to prevent water from pooling Empty, clean and refill bird baths, stock troughs and pet water bowls at least once a week Keep swimming pools properly maintained and free of debris Empty wading pools at the end of each day Stock backyard ponds with fish to eat mosquito larvae Cover rainwater and septic tank openings, wells or other large water containers with mosquito-proof mesh Keep edges of ponds clear of vegetation. The only way to prevent infection is to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. Cover Up – wear long, loose-fitting, light coloured clothing, covering as much of the body as you can. Repel – When outdoors and mosquitoes are present, apply insect repellent containing DEET (diethyltoluamide) or picaridin evenly to exposed skin. Clean Up – simple changes around your home can reduce mosquito breeding. Remove, empty or cover water-holding containers.

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