Mosquito virus alert - Media Release
Last modified: November 1, 2009 - 1:29 PM
Council has issued an alert to Port Stephens residents and visitors regarding the risk of contracting Ross River and Barmah Forest viruses after a number of mosquitoes trapped in Medowie and Karuah tested positive for the viruses.
Dr. Cameron E Webb from the NSW Department of Medical Entomology at Westmead Hospital said council had been working closely with Hunter New England Health, the Premiers Department and other agencies to develop a regional approach to minimising the impact of mosquitoes.
“With arboviruses such as Ross River virus and Barmah Forest virus present in the region, extra care should be taken to avoid exposure to mosquito bites by covering up when outside at dawn and dusk as well as using an insect repellent containing either deet or picaridin".
Dr. Webb said “The combination of heavy rainfall and high tides are likely to result in substantial increases in mosquito populations over the coming weeks and the major nuisance-biting and disease carrying species in the Hunter region, the saltmarsh mosquito, can fly many kilometers and is therefore almost impossible to control or eradicate”.
"Based on mosquito population monitoring and in conjunction with the 'Mozzies Suck So Cover Up!' awareness program, a tide chart for the Hunter region that highlights expected periods of high mosquito abundance has been developed. During outdoor activity at these times, like fishing or camping, care should be taken to avoid mosquito bites by covering up and using insect repellents".
It is advised that people take appropriate steps to protect themselves including:
• Avoiding mosquito breeding areas (e.g. wetlands) where possible
• Avoiding outside activity around dusk and dawn – when mosquitoes are most active
• Wearing loose fitting, light-coloured clothing that covers the legs and arms
• Applying insect repellent that contains the chemical diethyl toulamide (DEET) or Picaridin on any exposed skin
• Ensuring doors and windows are fitted with good quality insect screens
To reduce mosquito breeding around the home:
• Empty tarpaulins covering boats and trailers after rain
• Empty all pot plant bases at least once per week or fill with damp sand
• Empty or dispose of cans, tyres and other water holding containers
• Flush out bird baths, pet water bowls and small water features
• Clear out gutters and check for water pooling
Copies of the Mozzies Suck So Cover Up! Hunter Region Tide Chart is available from council and for more information on the local mosquito populations visit the website www.mosquitoes.nsw.gov.au
Contact details
Dr. Cameron E Webb - Hospital Scientist & Clinical Lecturer
Tel: 02 94857548
cameron.webb@swahs.health.nsw.gov.au
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