Managing mosquitoes
All landholders are responsible for managing mosquitoes on their property to reduce the risk of mosquito-borne viruses, such as Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV).
Adult mosquitoes lay eggs in natural or constructed places, on or around freshwater, wastewater, and stagnant standing water.
The most effective way to manage mosquitoes is a combination of non-chemical and chemical methods. This targets all stages of their lifecycle and breaks the breeding cycle.
Controls for your property
Monitoring for mosquitoes at the various stages of their lifecycle can determine the most effective control methods. Each day you can reduce breeding on your property by inspecting:
- bodies of water and water-filled containers for wrigglers
- areas where adult mosquitoes will rest, like ceilings and walls.
If mosquitoes remain abundant, consider the following controls.
Non-chemical measures
Take these steps to minimise mosquito breeding:
- Remove anything in the open that is filled with water or has the potential to hold water.
- Fill in potholes or other areas that collect water.
- Clear debris from gutters, downpipes, and drains around buildings so that water doesn’t pool.
- Trim overhanging tree branches where mosquitoes may rest.
- Ensure effluent drainage is free flowing, flushed regularly, and does not pool.
- Seal tanks, wells, other large water containers, or screening with 1mm mesh.
- Reduce vegetation around buildings to minimise areas where adult mosquitoes can rest.
Chemical control
If you are opting for chemical control, be aware that:
- chemical residues in pork are a risk to trade and food quality
- chemicals must only be used in accordance with the directions on the label, which may include registration for authorised use
- chemical use can impact bees.
Horse owners can learn how to reduce the risk of JEV with Farm Biosecurity's mosquito management guidelines.
Controls for piggeries
Pig producers can find information for controlling mosquitoes in piggeries, including chemical control, via Farm Biosecurity.
All piggeries should have a mosquito management plan – use the Australian Pork Limited JEV template.
Managing human exposure
Minimise the risk of human exposure to mosquitoes by taking these precautions:
- wear long, loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing
- use a repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus
- learn how to protect yourself from mosquito bites.
See the SA Health advice for human symptoms of JE. If you think you or someone you know may have the virus, seek medical advice promptly.
Report suspected Japanese encephalitis
JE is a nationally notifiable disease. If you suspect or diagnose animals with JE, call your private vet or the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline.
Your vet can discuss subsidised testing with PIRSA.