Published on Friday, 11 December 2020 at 1:54:00 PM
Community members are advised to take action around their properties following recent rain, to help prevent and reduce mosquito breeding.
Mosquito minimisation activities by the Town of Port Hedland’s Environmental Health Team are underway, however these actions bolster the Town’s efforts and are critical to reducing the numbers of mosquitos in your area:
- Emptying any unwanted and standing water from containers especially old tyres and drums
- Keeping ornamental ponds stocked with mosquito-eating fish e.g. goldfish
- Keeping swimming pools well chlorinated and filtered, as well as free from leaves
- Filling or draining depressions in the ground that hold water
- Screening rainwater tanks with insect proof mesh
- Ensuring guttering does not hold water
- Emptying pot plant drip trays once a week or fill with sand
- Reporting other areas of breeding (outside your property) to the environmental health services for treatment.
Mosquitoes can transmit diseases such as Ross River Virus, Barmah Forrest Virus, Kunjin Virus and Murray Valley Encephalitis.
Eliminating potential breeding sites for mosquitoes is essential in preventing the spread of diseases.
In times of high mosquito activity, protective actions include:
- Minimising outdoor exposure especially at dawn and dusk unless adequately protected
- Wearing loose clothing covering arms and legs when outdoors.
- Avoid camping and outdoor activities adjacent to known mosquito areas such as mangroves and low lying areas
- Using a personal repellent containing diethyl toluamide (DEET) or picaridin
- Ensuring insect screens are installed to any openings of your house and are in good condition.
More information is available by calling the Town of Port Hedland’s Environmental Health team on 9158 9300 or via emailing council@porthedland.wa.gov.au
For media information:
Laura Hawes
Manager Corporate Affairs
(08) 9158 9365 | lhawes@porthedland.wa.gov.au
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