Mosquito Control update

A second helicopter treatment was undertaken for the 2020-2021 mosquito control season on Wednesday, 9 September.

This was in response to a number of high tides and storm events resulting in consecutive egg hatching. Further isolates of Ross River virus have been recovered from mosquito traps within the Shire.

The aerial treatment encompassed the tidal and freshwater wetlands north from Buffalo Road, south to areas of Clifton Park and the Collie River. The total area treated in the Shire was 45 hectares with the application of 216 kg of larvicide.

Post treatment surveys of selected sites is mandatory and are scheduled to be undertaken on Friday, 11 September.

More information:

In Western Australia, mosquitoes can transmit Ross River virus, Barmah Forest virus, Kunjin virus and the potentially fatal Murray Valley encephalitis virus. There is currently no cure and no vaccine for any mosquito-borne disease acquired in WA. 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.