Why it’s important
Certain types of mosquitoes can carry viruses and parasites that can make you sick. Some are found in mosquitoes in Australia, while others occur only overseas.
Viruses found in both Australia and overseas include:
- Barmah Forest virus
- Dengue virus (northern Queensland and the Torres Strait only)
- Japanese encephalitis virus
- Kunjin virus (a subtype of West Nile Virus)
- Murray Valley encephalitis virus
- Ross River virus.
Viruses and parasites found only overseas include:
You can be infected when a mosquito carrying a virus or parasite bites you.
Mosquitoes are more active in warm temperatures, so the risk is greater in warmer months and climates.
You have a greater chance of being bitten around:
- floodwater
- swamps
- salt marshes
- wetlands
- other standing water.
Prevention
Protect yourself from mosquito bites by:
- wearing long-sleeved, loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing and enclosed footwear – mosquitoes can bite through tight clothing
- using insect repellents that contain diethyltoluamide (DEET), picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) – always follow the instructions on the label
- stopping mosquitoes from getting inside – use insect screens on windows and doors
- using insecticide-treated bed nets when sleeping
- using mosquito coils and insecticide sprays – always follow the instructions on the label
- avoiding areas of high mosquito activity, if you can.
Reduce the risk of mosquitoes breeding around your home by:
- removing standing water where mosquitoes may breed – like in plant trays or saucers, buckets, tyres and kiddie pools
- regularly cleaning out permanent water containers – such as ponds and pet water bowls
- covering openings to water storage – like rainwater and septic tanks – with mosquito-proof mesh
- keeping gutters clear and lawns mowed.
If you are travelling overseas, talk to your healthcare professional about the best ways to protect yourself from diseases.
This may include vaccination or medicines to protect against some mosquito-borne diseases.
Follow Smartraveller advice for your destination.
Resources
For information about mosquito bite prevention in your state or territory see: