Mosquito surveillance and aerial treatment activities have begun for the 2014/15 season.
The Peel Mosquito Management Group (PMMG) has conducted three helicopter larviciding treatments over the winter months with further treatments to be carried out when deemed appropriate.
Mayor Marina Vergone said it was difficult to predict future levels of mosquito activity because breeding is driven by climatic conditions, particularly tidal influences in the Peel-Harvey Estuary.
“Historically, El Nino and La Nina weather events have been good indicators of what’s in-store for the upcoming mosquito season," she said.
"At present an El Nino event is forecast, which generally means less suitable conditions for mosquito breeding.
“However these environmental conditions are changeable and as the weather begins to warm up, mosquitoes become more active.
Mayor Vergone said given the outdoors-lifestyle enjoyed by those in Mandurah, it was important for residents to protect themselves.
“The PMMG will keep the community informed regularly about any increases in mosquito activity and disease risk over the next few months,” she said.
To minimise the risk of mosquito bites and the risk of disease, people should:
use personal insect repellent containing DEET or Picaridin;
cover up by wearing long, loose fitting clothing, avoid wearing dark colours;
avoid peak mosquito activity times, at dawn and dusk;
ensure screen doors and windows are secured properly; and
use pesticide barrier sprays around the home garden that provide ongoing relief from mosquitoes.
The aerial treatments come on the back of one of Mandurah's best mosquito seasons to date.
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