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Mosquito-control treatments paying dividends
Thursday, 31 December 2009
9:45 AM
Media Releases
City of Greater Geelong Mayor Cr John Mtchell said that recent surveying of mosquito numbers on the Bellarine indicated that numbers were significantly down compared to this last time year.
“Light trap readings are made on a fortnightly basis at Breamlea, Ocean Grove, Barwon Heads, Point Lonsdale, St Leonards and the Geelong Botanic Gardens – the readings show that numbers of adult mosquitoes are measurably less than last year and this is despite a much greater rainfall in the lead up to summer,” said Cr Mitchell.
“These results indicate that the City of Greater Geelong’s mosquito management program is working and working well,” he said.
The City uses a combination of aerial application and ground level treatment to control mosquitoes in the common breeding sites around the Bellarine Peninsula.
The mosquito control products used in aerial spraying are larvicides called Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) and s-Methoprene.
“These products only affect mosquito larvae,” Cr Mitchell said.
“Humans, animals, and the general environment will not be adversely affected by the aerial treatments.”
He said that the aim of the City’s mosquito management program was to reduce mosquito numbers to moderate levels, as it was not feasible to eliminate all airborne mosquitoes.
“Residents should expect to see an increase in the general number of mosquitoes, as it is normal for adult levels to fluctuate over the season,” Cr Mitchell said.
“Rainfall, temperature and tide all affect breeding of mosquitoes in both open wetland areas and backyards,” he said.
Cr Mitchell said it was important for residents to be mindful when collecting water for re-use, to check for larvae, keep gutters clean, and empty or cover buckets of water.
“Residents can protect themselves against mosquito bites by wearing clothing that is light coloured and loose fitting, and cover their arms and legs, and by using an effective insect repellent,” Cr Mitchell said.
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