The City of Cockburn is encouraging residents to be vigilant in protecting themselves against mosquito bites after Ross River virus was detected in mosquitoes from Thomson’s lake.
The virus detection was performed by the Department of Health/PathWest on samples collected by the City’s Environmental Health team in July as part of a regular mosquito monitoring program.
The virus has been detected at a number of other sites within the greater Peel region recently, including the City of Rockingham. These detections are highly unusual at this time of year, as mosquito numbers and virus activity are typically reduced during winter.
It is important for residents to think about ways to protect themselves, their families and their homes from mosquitoes said Nick Jones, the City’s Manager Environmental Health Services.
“The only way to prevent being infected with a mosquito-borne disease, such as Ross River virus, is to avoid being bitten in the first place” said Mr Jones.
The City’s Environmental Health department offered the following advice to residents:
- Cover up with long, loose-fitting, light coloured clothing especially at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are more likely to bite.
- Repel by applying insect repellent containing DEET (diethyltoluamide) or picaridin, evenly to all areas of exposed skin.
- Clean up to stop mosquitoes breeding around your home by removing, emptying or covering water holding containers.
- Screen all doors and windows on your house and make sure there are no holes or tears.
The City will continue to monitor the mosquito population and treat locations where the pests are likely to breed.
The City’s Environmental Health Team can be contacted on 9411 3444 or emailed at
[email protected].