Biting midges will be out in high numbers from 27 August to 2 September coinciding with the full moon.

Director of Medical Entomology, Nina Kurucz advises Top End residents and visitors to avoid midge bites by taking precautions and avoiding mangrove areas where biting midges breed, especially around sunrise and sunset.

“Cover up with long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, socks and shoes and apply DEET or Picaridin-based repellants,” said Ms Kurucz.

“Insecticide coils, mosquito lanterns and insecticide barrier applications are also helpful.”

“Mangrove biting midge, Culicoides ornatus, are expected to occur in high numbers along the NT coast within 1.5 km of extensive areas of coastal mangroves.”

“Higher than normal activity will occur from now until the end of November in the periods three days before and after full moons, and to a lesser extend around new moons.”

“The pain, swelling and itchiness biting midge bites can cause is due to the chemicals contained in the saliva injected into the human hosts.”

People should avoid scratching the bites because this can easily break the skin, introducing bacterial infection that can lead to unsightly sores.

For people who have been bitten by midges, soothing lotions may provide relief. Ice packs can be applied to the site of stronger bite reactions, but a severe reaction may require medical attention.

A 2015 calendar detailing expected biting midge pest periods is available at:

http://www.health.nt.gov.au/Medical_Entomology/index.aspx

Media Contact: Lorraine Hook 8999 2818 or 0427 596 954