Mosquito Control
Mosquitos are not only a nuisance, they can also transmit diseases such as Ross River or Barmah Forest viruses to the community. For this reason, Council’s Mosquito Management Program targets the mosquitoes that are capable of transmitting these diseases. Mosquito numbers can increase during wet weather or above average high tide conditions. They most commonly inhabit saltmarsh and freshwater areas. Their breeding season peaks from September to May.
Ross River and Barmah Forest viruses are the most common mosquito-borne diseases in Queensland. Some types of mosquitoes can give your dog heartworm.
Management Program
Noosa Council is committed to delivering a best practice mosquito management program that is safe for the environment and residents to effectively manage mosquito numbers across the Shire. This involves regular monitoring of known mosquito breeding sites and treating mosquito-prone areas. This is done through the ground and aerial application of two main control products – Methoprene and BTI. Council also treats larval mosquitoes (not yet adult or flying mosquitoes). As part of Council’s surveillance programs, regular light trapping for adult mosquitos is also undertaken. This enables Council to monitor numbers of adult mosquitos and determine the type of species impacting particular areas so that treatments can be targeted accordingly.
Aerial treatments
Council conducts regular aerial treatments by helicopter to treat the region's inter-tidal and mangrove areas, targeting saltmarsh mosquito larvae which usually develop after rain or a tide higher than 2.10 metres in the Noosa river. Aerial treatments are often planned to coincide with predicted tide events, although the effectiveness of helicopter treatments for saltmarsh mosquito larvae can be affected by wind and follow up rain.
Aerial treatments target larvae and not adult mosquitoes at known large scale mosquito breeding locations identified on the map below.
Council uses two main biological control products for mosquito treatments in accordance with the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority guidelines. This includes (S)-Methoprene, an insect growth regulator, and Bacillus Thuringiensis subspecies Israelensis (Bti), a bacterial agent that kills mosquito larvae via ingestion. These chemicals are safe to use, environmentally friendly and only target mosquito larvae.
Tips to protect yourself from mosquitoes
Although Council administers the Mosquito Management Program,), the following additional personal protective measures should be taken:
- Use a repellent containing DEET when outside. Always read the label and follow safety directions
- Wear long-sleeve shirts and trousers. Light colours are best
- Limit time outside at dusk and dawn
- Spray screens with residual products. Always read the label and follow safety directions
- Increase light and air movement around dark and damp areas
- Keep swimming pools clean and chlorinated
- See a vet for advice on suitable preventative treatments/repellents if your pet is affected.
Reduce mosquito breeding
Although treatments are effective, it is not possible to treat all breeding locations, as mosquitos can breed in small pools of water, such as bird baths and pot plant basis.
You can reduce mosquitos on and around your property by:
- Removing water sources around the house. This includes containers, pot plants or items holding water
- Ensuring your rainwater tank is fitted with mosquito-proof screens
- Keep any ornamental ponds and fountains stocked with fish
- Outdoor areas can be treated with products containing a residual insecticide for control over longer periods
- Change water in pet bowls and bird baths frequently.
- Clean your roof gutters on a regular basis
Small amounts of water can breed large numbers of mosquitoes. Always empty containers and drain water-logged areas where possible.
Following simple guidelines can greatly reduce your risk of getting a mosquito-borne disease. It will also increase your enjoyment of the Coast's environment.
Learn how to protect yourself and your family and pets against mosquitoes - Mosquitoes Factsheet (PDF)
More information on mosquitoes can be found on the Queensland Health (PDF) website.
Midges
Midges do not carry disease to humans. But there are a number of things you can do to protect against biting midge. Learn how to protect yourself and your family and pets against midge - Midge Factsheet (PDF).