Protection against mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are an active part of the Northern Territory (NT) environment.

Whether you are a visitor or a resident, it is important to protect yourself and your family against mosquitoes.

Health risks

Mosquito bites can cause temporary reactions like itching, swelling and discomfort.

They can also spread viruses and parasites to humans.

In the NT they can cause diseases such as:

• Murray Valley encephalitis
• Japanese encephalitis
• Ross River virus

The severity of these diseases can vary depending on:

• the type of infection you get
• how old you are
• any existing health conditions you may have.

Some mosquito-borne diseases are life threatening and require hospitalisation.

High risk times

Mosquitoes are active all year round, but there are times when there is increased mosquito activity.

These are:

• at dusk (sunset) and dawn (sunrise)
• following heavy rains
• during and just after the wet season in the Top End.

Protecting against bites

There are a limited number of vaccines available for mosquito-borne diseases, these vaccines target specific diseases and do not provide protection against other diseases transmitted by mosquitoes.

The best protection is to avoid being bitten.

You can protect yourself and your family by:

• maintaining flyscreens around your home
• staying indoors when mosquitoes are most active
• using mosquito proof tents or sleep under a mosquito net when camping
• using repellents containing DEET, picaridin or PMD and reapply as directed
• using mosquito coils, candles or lanterns in outdoor areas
• covering your feet, legs and arms in loose light-coloured clothing
• not wearing scents like perfumes or deodorants as these can attract mosquitoes.

In the NT, a free Japanese encephalitis vaccine is available to eligible groups, check your eligibility.

Protecting babies and toddlers

Babies and toddlers can be more at risk of mosquito-borne diseases.

Always read the labels before using or applying any repellents.

Other ways you can protect babies and toddlers:

• dress them in long, light coloured, loose fitting clothing that covers their arms and legs
• use mosquito-proof mesh on doors and windows so mosquitoes can’t come inside
• use mosquito-proof netting over prams and strollers.

Read more about protecting babies and toddlers on the SA Health website.

Mosquitoes around your home

Mosquitoes breed in water. This includes water left in:

• blocked roof gutters
• wheelbarrows
• buckets
• plant drip trays
• old tyres
• bins.

Regularly check around your home and empty containers filled with water. Store empty containers under cover or upside down.

You should also:

• change your pet's water weekly
• keep fish ponds stocked with fish
• maintain your swimming pool
• maintain and cover your water tank

You can use residual barrier spray to provide longer term protection from adult mosquitoes around your house. These residual should be applied in outdoor areas according to the instructions on the label. Some products can affect other insects and animals, including fish. Spraying should be done by a licensed pest controller.

Watch the mosquito repeller for more ideas on how to stay protected.