Maintained vigilance recommended to reduce mosquitoes and fight the bite

Community members across the Shire of Ashburton are urged to take precautions to reduce the number of mosquitoes around their homes and properties.

At various times of the year we experience an increase in mosquito activity. For our inland towns such as Tom Price, Paraburdoo and Pannawonica this is typically after heavy rains and for our Onslow residents, mosquito issues can be associated with king tides, as we are currently experiencing.

Many mosquitoes are at their biting best around dusk and dawn, but some will bite day and night.

We have confirmed cases of Ross River virus and have observed that Murray Valley Encephalitis virus is present in the Shire.

There is currently no cure and no vaccine for any mosquito-borne disease acquired in WA.

Residual barrier treatments to homes and businesses may be helpful to minimise the number of mosquitoes coming into contact with community members.

Personal protection is the best way to prevent being bitten. It is advised to cover up by wearing wear long, loose-fitting, light coloured clothing, covering as much of the body as you can.

When outdoors and mosquitoes are present, apply insect repellent containing picaridin or DEET (diethyltoluamide) evenly to exposed skin. If you spend long periods of time outdoors, you may need to reapply your repellent.

Simple changes around your home can reduce mosquito breeding. Remove, empty or cover water-holding containers. Keep swimming pools properly maintained and free of debris and empty wading pools at the end of each day.

For more information visit healthywa.wa.gov.au/FighttheBite or contact the Shire’s Environmental Team on 08 9188 4444 or email [email protected].

For media information contact:

Alison Lennon, Manager Media and Communications, Shire of Ashburton

M: 0409 314 140 | E: [email protected]

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