Published on Monday, 20 April 2026 at 8:34AM
Routine mosquito surveillance has detected the MVE virus in sentinel chickens near the caravan park/pony club area. These chickens are part of an early warning program used across WA to help protect the community.
Mosquito numbers have recently increased in this area, which is a known breeding location near natural waterways. Access issues to some sites have now been resolved, and targeted mosquito control works (larviciding) will be carried out, including longer‑lasting treatments.
⚠️What this means for residents
– Risk is highest in bushland areas near water, including around the caravan park and Kings Lake.
– Mosquito activity within town remains low, with recent monitoring showing little to no activity in central Tom Price.
As a precaution, residents are encouraged to:
– Use insect repellent (DEET‑based recommended)
– Wear long sleeves and light‑coloured clothing
– Avoid high‑risk mosquito areas where possible
Free insect repellent is available from Shire office front desks.
Fogging is not currently planned and is only used when both mosquito numbers and disease risk are high. The Shire is working closely with the Department of Health and following their advice.
If you are noticing higher mosquito numbers around your home, please report it to the Shire so we can investigate.
For more information, contact the Shire of Ashburton at [email protected] and visit Fight the Bite for advice https://www.health.wa.gov.au/Articles/F_I/Fight-the-Bite-campaign
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