Mosquitoes breed in flood zones. Avoid bites: wear long sleeves & repellent & drain water around home

Mosquitoes can carry diseases that may be passed on to people through mosquito bites.

In Australia, some of these include Murray Valley encephalitis virus, Ross River virus, Barmah Forest virus and dengue virus. Periods of heavy rainfall or floods can led to ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes, even in non-tropical areas. Diseases that are spread by insects are known as ‘vector- borne’ diseases.

Mosquito-borne diseases can make people ill and, in severe cases, can cause death.

How to avoid mosquito bites

There are many simple things you can do to avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes, including:

• Wear long, loose-fitting clothes if mosquitoes are around.
• Cover up as much as possible.
• Use an effective mosquito repellent on all exposed skin.
• Prevent mosquito breeding around your own home.
• Prevent mosquitoes from getting inside by using fly screens on windows and doors.
• Use mosquito coils or insecticide candles in small, outdoor areas.

Choosing a mosquito repellent

Repellents come in lotions, gels, aerosols and pump sprays. Lotions and gels are easier to apply, though all repellents containing picaridin and DEET (N,N-Diethyl-m-toluamide or diethyltoluamide) are effective at repelling mosquitoes when used correctly.

Repellents containing picaridin or DEET are the most effective. These products are available in different stregnths (known as ‘concentrations)  ranging from 3–100% DEET, or 10–20% picaridin. Higher concentrations provide protection for longer.

Natural repellents (such as Citronella or Eucalyptus) provide very limited protection from mosquitoes.

How to use mosquito repellent

Like sunscreen, mosquito repellent is only effective if applied to all exposed skin. A few dabs here and there will not keep the mosquitoes away. Aim to apply a thin, even layer to all exposed skin.

Repellent may need to be reapplied frequently, particularly if you have been sweating from the heat or exercise. Mosquito repellent is not water-resistant like most sunscreens, and must be reapplied after swimming.

If using mosquito repellent in conjunction with sunscreen, apply the sunscreen first.

Remember:

• Choose mosquito repellents that contain picaridin or DEET as the active ingredient.
• Always read and follow directions on the label.
• Do not apply excessive repellent – use only a thin, even layer.
• Never allow young children to apply their own repellent. Avoid applying repellent to your children’s hands, eyes and mouth.
• Always store repellents safely and out of reach of children.

Where to get help

• Your doctor
• Nurse-on-call Tel. 1300 60 60 24 – for confidential health advice from a registered nurse, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
• Department of Health and Human Services, Communicable Disease Prevention and Control Unit Tel. 1300 651 160
• Your local council – for information about mosquito control programs in your area.