Mosquitoes

Our mosquito management program involves monitoring and identifying major breeding locations. Mosquito control programs are implemented, as needed, with advice provided to the public on all aspects of mosquito control and mosquito borne diseases of local significance. The focus is to reduce the numbers of mosquitoes responsible for spreading the arbovirus, which causes Ross River and Barmah Forest viruses.

The program normally operates from November to March each year. Generally mosquito numbers are very low during the winter months, therefore monitoring and treatment are not needed during this period.

What you can do

To protect you and your family from mosquito-borne diseases:

• Wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing when outdoors
• Use mosquito repellents containing DEET or picaridin on exposed skin
• Try to limit outdoor activity if lots of mosquitoes are about (usually dusk and dawn)
• Make sure there is no stagnant water where mosquitoes can breed around your home
• Make sure your home (or holiday accommodation) is properly fitted with mosquito netting or screens
• For children, it is safer to spray or rub insect repellents on their clothes rather than directly onto their skin

• Notify Council of any significant adult mosquito activity.