Health Warning on Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes

In Western Australia, mosquitoes can transmit Ross River virus, Barmah Forest virus, Kunjin virus and the potentially fatal Murray Valley encephalitis virus. There is currently no cure or vaccine for any of these diseases. The only way to prevent infection is to avoid being bitten.

Residents and visitors to the Shire are being warned to protect themselves against mosquito-borne diseases. Ross River virus was detected in mosquitoes in and around Newman and Marble Bar giving an early indication of increased risk of human disease for the upcoming wet season (Jan – May).

Prevent Mosquito Bites

Many mosquitoes bite around dusk and dawn, but some can bite day and night. The only way to prevent mosquito-borne disease is to avoid being bitten. Know how to prevent mosquito bites – cover up, repel, clean up.

For more information please visit HealthyWA.

Diseases Transmitted by Mosquitoes in Western Australia

In Western Australia, mosquitoes can transmit Ross River virus, Barmah Forest virus, Kunjin virus and the potentially fatal Murray Valley encephalitis virus. There is currently no cure or vaccine for any of these diseases. The only way to prevent infection is to avoid being bitten.

For more information please visit HealthyWA.

Prevent Mosquito Bites at Home

Mosquitoes can breed around your home. They will lay their eggs in fresh or salty water, and often in containers that hold water. Common breeding sites include pot plant drip trays, gutters, ponds, pet water bowls, old tyres, rubbish, containers and pools that are not well maintained.

Visit HealthyWA for simple steps to prevent breeding!

For More Information

For more information about mosquito-borne disease prevention, please contact the Shire’s Environmental Health Department on 9175 8000, email [email protected] or visit the HealthyWA website.