Mosquitoes - how can I protect myself and my family from mosquito bites?

There are some simple things you can do to avoid mosquito bites:

Wear light coloured, loose fitting clothes that cover your arms and legs. Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colours
Use effective mosquito repellents, those containing DEET and picaridin are most effective. Always follow label instructions when applying repellents
Limit outdoor activity if mosquito levels are high, especially at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active
Use ‘knockdown’ sprays in outdoor areas
Ensure windows and doors are fitted with flywire screens

Visit the Better Health Channel for more information.

Common questions

Mosquitoes - what kinds of diseases can be carried by mosquitoes?

The most common disease carried by mosquitoes in Victoria is Ross River Virus, however, virus's such as Japanese encephalitis (JE), Murray Valley encephalitis (MVE), Barmah Forest (BF) and West Nile (Kunjin) are known to circulate in the state.

Although most mosquitoes in Victoria do not carry diseases and the majority are just a nuisance, the City conducts virological testing of adult mosquito samples with assistance from the Department of Health. This is to ensure that if mosquitoes within Greater Geelong, proper actions can be taken to reduce the risk of transmission to residents.

The best way to reduce your risk of mosquito-borne diseases is to protect yourself against mosquito bites; find out how you can protect yourself and your family at Protecting yourself from mosquitoes or the Department of Health Better Health Channel.

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Mosquitoes - which repellent works best?

Creams and gels with the active ingredients N,N-Diethyl-m-toluamide (DEET, or diethyltoluamide) or picaridin provide the best protection against mosquito bites.

Most products provide protection for between one and three hours. Follow the label instructions when applying any repellent.

If you swim or sweat profusely, protection will be less and you may need to re-apply.

Visit the Better Health Channel or the Royal Children's Hospital for more information about mosquito repellent use.

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