Mosquito Control Remains a High Priority

The ninth aerial treatment for the season will be undertaken next week to control mosquito larvae in the Shire.

Larval sites have been treated from Buffalo Road, Leschenault to areas around the Collie River and Clifton Park locality.

Aerial treatments have been undertaken on the following days this season:

• 28 July 2020
• 9 September 2020
• 5 November 2020
• 20 November 2020
• 18 December 2020
• 7 January 2021
• 14 January 2021
• 25 January 2021

While mosquito numbers continue to drop, cases of Ross River virus continue to be regularly received by the Shire’s Health Team, therefore mosquito control remains a high priority.

The number of WA reported cases of Ross River virus has now exceeded the five year average.

There are currently 319 reported cased of Ross River virus, compared to 156 this time last year.

The Shire’s health team will continue to monitor the situation and will conduct further aerial treatments over the coming months.

More information:

• There is currently no cure and no vaccine for any mosquito-borne disease acquired in WA.
• The only way to prevent infection is to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.
• Cover Up – wear long, loose-fitting, light coloured clothing, covering as much of the body as you can.
• Repel – When outdoors and mosquitoes are present, apply insect repellent containing DEET (diethyltoluamide) or picaridin evenly to exposed skin.
• Clean Up – simple changes around your home can reduce mosquito breeding. Remove, empty or cover water-holding containers.

Visit the Healthy WA website for further information.