Predicted surges in salt marsh mosquito numbers during this build-up season has prompted the Department of Health to re-issue a warning to NT residents and visitors.

Top Enders are being warned to cover up and avoid areas near salt marsh mosquito breeding sites, such as tidal creeks and brackish swamps along the NT cost line to avoid contracting mosquito borne disease.

Salt marsh mosquitoes can carry the Barmah Forest and Ross River viruses (RRV), and according to the Department’s acting Director of Medical Entomology, Mr Alex Roberts, recent high monthly tides in August and September have created the perfect mosquito breeding conditions.

“We have already seen substantial numbers of salt marsh mosquitoes so far this season, resulting in large numbers of eggs deposited in the breeding sites. Flooding tides or rain will cause a massive egg hatch, followed by the emergence of high numbers of adult mosquitoes 9 days later. Although we have not yet entered the high risk period for RRV, due to increased humidity, mosquitoes might now survive long enough to pick up and transmit the virus,” said Mr Roberts.

Pest problems are expected for about 10 days, starting on 8 October, with areas within 10km of tidal areas most affected. Extensive breeding areas, outside the control zone to the east of Shoal Bay and the mouth of Howard River are expected to cause an influx of salt marsh mosquitoes into Darwin, Palmerston and rural areas. 

The Department has treated already aerially treated 357 hectares of salt marsh mosquito breeding areas in swamps bordering the northern Darwin suburbs since August this year. Extensive ground control has also been carried out in Darwin urban areas.

A salt marsh mosquito pest calendar is available on the Department’s website, indicating periods with expected high salt marsh mosquito numbers: www.health.nt.gov.au

Protection against bites is the best course of action as there is no vaccine to prevent Ross River or Barmah Forest virus disease.

People in the Top End experiencing mosquito pest problems are advised to:

• avoid locations near coastal swamps and mangrove areas
• avoid outdoor exposure around dusk and at night near areas of dense vegetation and other areas of high mosquito activity
• use mosquito-proof accommodation and camping facilities at night
• wear light-coloured clothing with long sleeves, long trousers and socks between dusk and dawn in areas where mosquito bites are likely
• use a protective repellent containing 20 per cent DEET or Picaridin as a supplement to protective clothing, with creams providing best protection
• use mosquito coils, mosquito lanterns, and barrier sprays containing bifenthrin in patio and outdoor areas near houses
• ensure children and animals are adequately protected against mosquito bites. 

Media Contact: Kirsty Reid 0401 116 203