Byron Shire Council

Protect yourself from mosquito borne diseases!

NSW Health pathology notifications in 2003 to 2007 identified Byron Shire as an area of coastal NSW with a high incidence of Ross River and Barmah Forest disease. These arboviruses are transmitted by mosquitoes that thrive in the wet temperate climate of the Northern Rivers area of NSW. In particular the saltmarsh species Ochlerotatus vigilax and the fresh to brackish water species Verralina funerea are the most common hosts of these diseases.

Ross River (RR) and Barmah Forest (BF) viruses

These polyarthritic diseases cause symptoms ranging from rashes and fevers to arthritic conditions lasting for months or even years. They are not recognised as causing death to humans, but the prolonged malaise associated with the diseases can disrupt the normal health and lifestyle of even the fittest person. More detailed information about these illnesses is available on the NSW Health website. As no cure for these illnesses is known, the best action is to prevent being bitten by mosquitoes!

Action you can take to prevent being bitten by mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are most active around sunset and for about two hours after. In areas of coastal forest that are heavily shaded, this activity can extend to all day after periods of rainfall. Mosquitoes need shallow, warm, stagnant pools of water that are free of competing insects and predators, to breed and grow to the flying adult stage. Outbreaks relate to large numbers of emerging adult mosquitoes. This can occur within two to three weeks after moderate rainfall or very high tides while the evening temperatures remain warm.

In and around your home you should minimise breeding areas to control the number of mosquitoes. You can reduce the number of mosquitoes in your backyard by:

• Throwing out containers in your yard that hold water (eg: tyres, wheel barrows, tins, jars)
• Changing water in bird baths and pet bowls every few days
• Cleaning roof gutters on a regular basis so they don’t hold water
• Screen all openings on septic tanks and rain water tanks
• Removing bromeliads or regularly flushing mosquito larvae using a high pressure hose
• Emptying pot plant saucers every week or filling them with sand
• Keeping swimming pools clean and chlorinated
• Keeping ornamental ponds and fountains stocked with fish. Please note that exotic (non-native) fish must never be released into natural waterways.
• Keep grass regularly mowed.
• Minimise heavy shade producing vegetation where possible
• Drain and fill small depressions that can hold water. Even areas marked by horse or cattle hoof prints and vehicle tracks can provide potential mosquito breeding habitats.
• Don’t block stormwater drains with discarded plant cuttings, lawn clippings or rubbish so that rain can quickly drain away.

Insect screens fitted to doors and windows are the best method of keeping mosquitoes out of the living and sleeping areas of your home. Some people also include mosquito netting where babies or small children sleep.

When outside enjoying your sport, a relaxing walk or a quiet moment, it is recommended that you use an effective repellent product on all exposed areas of skin. Covering up with loose fitting, light coloured clothing, and enclosed footwear, will reduce the area of your skin that needs to be protected by a repellent. 
The most effective repellents contain diethyl toluamide (DEET less than 20%). DEET may be harmful when applied to sensitive individuals or small infants, or if used excessively or for prolonged periods. Please read the label on the product before purchasing or using any mosquito repellent products.

How do I treat mosquito bites to stop the itch?

Cold water and ice can be useful, although ice should never be applied directly to the skin. A variety of commercial preparations can be obtained from the local pharmacy. In severe cases, antihistamines may have to be administered and if symptoms persist, a doctor should be consulted.

What is councils’ role in controlling mosquitoes in this region?