Biting midges will be out in high numbers from 15 to 21 August coinciding with the full moon.

Director of Medical Entomology Nina Kurucz has advised Top End residents and visitors to avoid midge bites by taking precautions and avoiding mangrove areas where biting midges are present, especially late in the afternoon and early in the morning.  

“Cover up with a long-sleeved shirt, long trousers, socks and shoes and apply DEET or picaridin-based insect repellents to exposed skin,”  Ms Kurucz said.

“Mosquito lanterns and insecticide barrier applications in yards are also helpful.”

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

“Due to increasing tides, peak biting midge activity will occur from now until December, when the first monsoonal rains occur. Numbers are highest three days before and after full moons, and to a lesser extent around new moons,” Ms Kurucz said.   

“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 infections that can lead to unsightly sores.”

For people who have been bitten by biting 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 2016 calendar detailing expected biting midge pest periods is available at:

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

Media Contact: Fred McCue 0401 119 792