Published on Monday, 24 October 2022 at 8:00:00 AM
The Shire of Ashburton is continuing to monitor mosquitoes following reports of increased activity across all our towns.
Due to increased groundwater resulting from more rainfall occurring in the region, mosquito numbers have increased across the Shire.
The Shire Health team are assessing the mosquito problem in each town and implementing an appropriate mosquito management program. This includes the deployment of larvicides to manage mosquito breeding areas on land where the Shire has responsibility.
Fogging is undertaken but is an option of last resort as it not only targets mosquitos but also other ‘friendly’ insects which are beneficial to the environment.
Residents are advised that while initial fogging will kill biting midge, commonly referred to as sand flies, as the fog settles a short time after biting midge will return in large numbers.
Stop mosquitoes breeding around your home by following these simple steps:
- Empty out or discard containers and rubbish that may hold water
- Clean out roof gutters to prevent water from pooling
- Empty, clean and refill bird baths, stock troughs and pet water bowls at least once a week
- Keep swimming pools properly maintained and free of debris
- Empty wading pools at the end of each day
- Stock garden ponds with fish to eat mosquito larvae
- Cover rainwater and septic tank openings, wells or other large water containers with mosquito-proof mesh
- Keep edges of dams and ponds clear of vegetation
It is advised to cover up by wearing wear long, loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing, covering as much of the body as you can.
When outdoors and mosquitoes are present, apply insect repellent containing picaridin or DEET (diethyltoluamide) evenly to exposed skin. If you spend long periods of time outdoors, you may need to reapply your repellent.
Many mosquitoes are at their biting best around dusk and dawn, but some will bite day and night.
For more information visit healthywa.wa.gov.au/FighttheBite or contact the Shire’s Environmental Team on 08 9188 4444.
Back to All News