The City of Mandurah's mosquito management team, in conjunction with the Peel Mosquito
Management Group (PMMG), have completed one of the largest aerial treatments ever undertaken in
the region.
The treatment took place from September 28 to October 1 and covered 573 hectares which at one
stage saw two helicopters in the air.
Mosquito surveillance and aerial treatment activities continued through the winter months with recent
high tides leading to the extensive treatment being required.
Environmental conditions, particularly lower tides, during „quieter‟ seasons play a key role in
managing mosquito activity and will play their part in the seasons ahead.
The environment also influences the prevalence of mosquito borne diseases, such as Ross River and
Barmah Forest Viruses each and every year, and it is not always linked to mosquito numbers.
Chief Executive Officer Mark Newman urged the community to remain vigilant about personal
mosquito protection.
“This is one of the biggest treatments ever undertaken by the Group and is part of ongoing efforts to
minimise the impact of mosquitoes in our region,” he said.
“It is difficult to predict future levels of mosquito activity as the environmental conditions that
determine breeding can vary so much. We will keep doing our best to minimise adult mosquito
numbers,” he said.
“During warmer months people tend to spend more time outdoors, so it's important that we remember
to protect ourselves and our families and not to rely on mosquito reduction efforts alone.”
To minimise the risk of mosquito bites and the risk of disease, people should:
- use personal insect repellent containing DEET or Picaridin;
- cover up by wearing long, loose fitting clothing, avoid wearing dark colours;
- ensure infants and children are adequately protected against mosquito bites, preferably with
suitable clothing, bed nets or other forms of insect screening;
- avoid outdoor exposure particularly during peak mosquito activity times, at dawn and dusk;
- ensure screen doors and windows are secured properly;
- empty or cover any standing water around the home or holiday accommodation to reduce
mosquito breeding;
- use pesticide barrier sprays around the home garden that provide ongoing relief from
mosquitoes; and
- use mosquito nets or mosquito-proof tents when camping or sleeping outdoors.
For more information, visit www.mandurah.wa.gov.au.