Mandurah mosquito number should drop in coming weeks, says City CEO

IF the weather remains stable and tides low, there should be a reduction in adult mosquito numbers in coming weeks, according to City chief executive Mark Newman.

Mr Newman said there had been an increase in mosquito activity in recent weeks.

“This was driven by weather events associated with ex-tropical cyclone Joyce that brought heavy rainfall on January 16 and storm surge tides to Mandurah, Perth and the South-West,’’ he said.

“Local tides continued to flood wetland breeding sites for 14 days over the period that led to heavy mosquito breeding.”

Mr Newman said helicopter treatments were carried out on January 20 and 22 over 310ha – the biggest treatment since October.

“The lifestyle cycle of a mosquito is 3-4 weeks so if the weather remains stable and tides low, mosquito numbers should reduce in coming weeks.”

He said treatments would continue in response to any further hatchings.

“Many residents will be familiar with the personal protective measures recommended to fight the bite and it is important we protect ourselves and our families and not rely only on mosquito eradication efforts.”

More information on the City’s mosquito management program on www.mandurah.wa.gov.au.

– Mosquito levels are influenced by local weather and tide conditions and two weeks of recurring high tides led to the hatch out. – Easterly breezes help disperse mosquitoes into populated areas. – The City has carried out eight treatments since November. – The council runs a program, in partnership with Peel Mosquito Management Group, with two dedicated mosquito officers running mosquito management all year round. – Reduce outdoor activity during high mosquito periods, cover up and apply personal insect repellent containing DEET or Picaridin.

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