How to protect yourself against mosquitoes

With lots of rain and flooding around the country, this will see ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes this summer. So be prepared.

Mosquitoes have a positive effect on the ecosystem providing a food source for fish and other wildlife, but they can also be dangerous to humans by spreading diseases through their bites.

Prevention

In order to prevent mosquito bites, it is recommended to wear long, loose fitting, light coloured clothing.

If the weather is too hot or humid, then use an insect repellent that contains picaridin or DEET on all exposed skin and if you are camping use mosquito-proof camping equipment.

When at home it is important to not leave stagnant water lying around as mosquitoes love to breed in this environment. Another true Aussie favourite is the use of mosquito coils when outside or off camping. Mosquitoes are also turned off by several natural scents including peppermint, citronella, lemongrass, catnip and lavender.

Where to get help

Mosquitoes mainly cause itchy bites but have the potential to spread serious disease like Ross River Fever and Japanese Encephalitis.

If after receiving a mosquito bite you experience rash, fever, chills, headaches, joint or muscle pain or swelling and stiffness, see your GP (doctor) or call Nurse-On-Call on 1300 606024.

“Fun” Facts

• Mosquitoes in Australia are affectionately known as ‘mozzies’!
• Out of around 3500 species worldwide more than 300 are found in Australia.
• Top speed is 2.41kph
• Average lifespan of a mosquito is less than two months
• Only female mosquitoes bite (i.e. pierces your skin to suck your blood)
• Mosquitoes feed on your blood to get protein and other compounds that are essential to help them produce and develop their eggs
• Female mosquitoes can lay up to 300 eggs at a time
• As the mosquito fills itself with blood, it injects saliva into your skin which triggers an immune system reaction, resulting in the itch and red bump.
• Their favourite times of day to bite you are dawn and dusk!

When out and about this summer just be mindful of mosquitoes, but don’t let them stop you from enjoying this great country of ours!

20^th August – World Mosquito Day

World Mosquito Day is held in commemoration of British Doctor, Sir Ronald Ross and his discovery in 1897 that female mosquitoes transmit malaria between humans.