Mosquito Control Update

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.