Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are blood sucking insects that are responsible for the transmission of many diseases throughout the human and animal populations of the world. Through their persistent biting, mosquitoes can cause major disruptions to occupational, recreational and social activities. Do your bit to reduce compulsory blood donations and possible infections by keeping tanks and other sources of still water covered with lids or mosquito nets.
Mosquitoes have a fairly small range, so if you have mosquitoes around your house, it is probably because either you or your neighbours have water sitting in containers.
Prevention
- Use coils and electric mats around the house.
- Screen windows, doors and water tanks, including overflow pipe, to prevent leaves, animals and mosquitoes entering or leaving the tank.
- Cover the top of your tank with mosquito netting or screening.
- Empty all containers in your garden that hold water , including pot plant saucers, tyres, roof guttering and tins to prevent breeding.
- Stay away from places known to be infested with large numbers of mosquitoes.
- Limit outdoor activities around dusk, which is peak hour for mosquito bites.
- Wear protective clothing — long sleeves and long pants.
- Use repellents that contain approx. 20% DEET (diethyl toluamide) on exposed skin, but not repeatedly on young children.
Symptoms
Most people have only a mild reaction but others can have severe allergic reactions from the saliva of mosquitoes. Typical symptoms include swelling, redness and irritation at the puncture site. If the bites are scratched or traumatized, they may become infected with bacteria and a secondary infection can result.
Treatment
Anti-itch ointment or an antiseptic cream.
Side effects
Human diseases transmitted throughout Australia by mosquitoes include Dengue fever, Australian encephalitis, Ross River virus disease and Barmah Forerst virus disease.