It’s the biting midge season again, and numbers are expected to rise around the full moon next week. Highest numbers are expected three days before and after each full and new moon until December.
Director of Medical Entomology, Nina Kurucz advises Top End residents and visitors to avoid midge bites by covering up, using insect repellents 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 Northern Territory coast within 1.5 km of extensive areas of coastal mangroves.”
“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.
The 2017 calendar detailing expected biting midge pest periods is available at:
Media Contact: Dimitra Grehl 0427 596 954