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Zap the mozzies before they zap you

By Latrobe City Council - 23rd February 2005 - Back to News

If you thought the mozzies were bad this summer, you’re absolutely right. Latrobe City Health Services Manager, Andrew Mackintosh, said this summer’s weather conditions have created prolific conditions for mosquitoes and he has urged residents to help reduce the potential for mosquitoes to breed, while protecting themselves from becoming mosquito prey by wearing appropriate clothing and repellent.

"The large mosquito populations that developed last summer have meant there has been a large carry-over population, which has now taken advantage of the current climatic conditions," Mr Mackintosh said.

"The abundant water lying around after recent heavy rains, together with the still, humid, warm and overcast conditions throughout the municipality, has created the perfect mosquito environment.

"The mosquitoes which have caused many residents problems, have been identified as Anopheles annuli pes - the common Australian anopheline species, which are aggressive, but not known to transmit disease to humans.

Mr Mackintosh said that while it is not possible to totally eliminate mosquitoes, it is possible to reduce their numbers by eliminating breeding areas; and it is also possible to reduce the likelihood of being bitten through wearing appropriate clothing and repellent.

"Adult mosquitoes can fly at least a kilometre and often more, and breeding is usually continuous. Therefore, killing adult mosquito today will not prevent problems from newly emerged mosquitoes tomorrow. Adult mosquitoes are usually much more widespread than the mosquito wrigglers which can occur in very large numbers even in small areas of water. Even small amounts of water may produce hundreds of mosquitoes each 7 to 14 days. Old tyres, tin cans, pot plant drip trays, ditches clogged with weeds, ornamental garden and fish ponds, rainwater tanks, septic tanks, blocked guttering, or anywhere where water can accumulate, needs to be cleaned up to prevent these areas used by mosquitoes for breeding," Mr Mackintosh said.

Mr Mackintosh said it is only the female mosquito that bites humans. They need blood to be able to produce their eggs so for self protection there is a need to screen all doors and windows, use reliable repellents and wear loose fitting clothing, particularly at the dusk and dawn periods," Mr Mackintosh said.

"It is important for all residents to assist with the reduction of nuisance mosquitoes by reducing the potential for mosquito breeding sites and avoiding being bitten," Mr Mackintosh concluded.

For further information, a fact sheet on mosquito control is available at Latrobe City service centres, or by telephoning 1300 367 700.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com