Residents of the Darwin and East Arnhem regions are urged to protect themselves from mosquito bites, with mosquito numbers expected to increase following heavy rainfall associated with Cyclone Nathan.

The Director of Medical Entomology, Nina Kurucz, explained that “widespread flooding in cyclone affected areas created environmental conditions favourable for the common banded mosquito to breed in high numbers.”

The common banded mosquito is most active around sunset and sunrise but also during the night. It can carry the Ross River and Murray Valley encephalitis virus. Other, non - disease related mosquitoes that bite during day time are also expected to increase in numbers.

To minimise the chance of being bitten by mosquitoes people should:

•      wear protective light-coloured clothing with long sleeves, long trousers, and ankle protection with socks, between dusk and dawn in areas where mosquito bites are likely;

•      avoid outdoor exposure around dusk, and at night, near wetlands and areas of dense vegetation as well as other areas of high mosquito activity;

•      use a protective repellent containing 20% DEET or Picaridin and other mosquito protection devices as a supplement to protective clothing when out doors at night in areas of mosquito activity;

•      ensure children are adequately protected against mosquito bites;

•      consider bifenthrin insecticide barrier treatments by pest control companies for use around residential grounds;

•      use mosquito proof accommodation and camping facilities at night.

Media Contact: Lorraine Hook 8999 2818 or 0427 596 954