The number of aerial treatments completed by the Shire's Health Team this year is higher than previous years and aerial treatments are continuing on a regular basis.
However, the risk of mosquito bites remains high and so residents are advised to:
- Avoid outdoor exposure particularly around dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active
- Wear long, loose-fitting and light-coloured clothing when outdoors
- Apply a personal repellent containing diethyltoluamide (DEET) or picaridin evenly to any exposed skin (always follow the label instructions)
- Ensure infants and children are adequately protected against mosquito bites, preferably with suitable clothing, bed nets or other forms of insect screening
- Ensure insect screens are installed and remain in good condition
- Use mosquito nets or mosquito-proof tents when camping or sleeping outdoors.
To reduce potential mosquito breeding around the home, residents should:
- Dispose of all containers which hold water where mosquitoes like to breed;
- Stock ornamental ponds with fish;
- Keep swimming pools well chlorinated, filtered and free of dead leaves;
- Fit mosquito proof covers to vent pipes on septic and rain water tank systems. Seal all gaps around the lid and ensure leach drains are completely covered;
- Empty pot plant drip trays once a week;
- Empty, clean and replenish your pet’s water bowl every day.
