​How to avoid mosquito bites?

• cover up as much as possible (light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing and covered footwear)
• use mosquito repellents
• use mosquito netting for children’s cribs, prams and strollers
• prevent mosquito breeding around the home.

How to choose and use mosquito repellent?

Choosing a repellent

• repellents containing DEET or Picaridin are most effective
• repellents containing oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or Para Menthane Diol (PMD) also provide adequate protection
• higher concentrations provide longer protection
• natural repellents such as citronella and eucalyptus provide very limited protection from mosquitoes.

Using a repellent

• always follow the directions on the product label
• apply a thin layer evenly to the exposed skin
• duration of protection depends on concentration. Follow reapplication times suggested on the product label
• reapply repellent after intense exercise, hot weather and after swimming. Sunscreen should always be applied before repellents
• do not use repellent on infants aged 3 months or younger
• do not allow young children to apply their own repellent. Avoid application to hands, eyes and mouth.

How to control mosquitoes around home?

• prevent mosquito entry by using flyscreens on windows and doors. Screen chimneys, vents and other entrances
• consider using surface spray in cool shady areas in and around the home where mosquitoes rest during day
• clean up your backyard and remove all water-holding rubbish, including tires and containers where mosquitoes can breed
• keep lawns mowed
• keep gutters and drains clean so water runs freely
• store anything that can hold water undercover or in a dry place, and keep bins covered
• change pet drinking bowls, bird baths and vase waters at least once a week, and more regularly in very warm weather
• cover or securely screen the openings of septic tanks and rainwater tanks
• fill pot plant base with sand to avoid standing water
• keep swimming pools well maintained or empty or securely cover them if not in use.

How to control mosquitoes inside the home?

• maintain flyscreens on windows, doors, vents and chimneys
• consider use of over the counter insecticide sprays against visible mosquitoes in your home
• mosquito coils (used outdoors) and vaporising mats (used indoors) can help to repel mosquitoes from an area of interest.

How to avoid mosquitoes during travel or camping?

• reside or sleep in screened or air conditioned rooms
• use a bed net if you are sleeping outdoors or if the area is known for mosquitoes. Nets are most effective when they are treated with a pyrethroid insecticide, such as permethrin. Pre-treated bed nets can be purchased before travelling, or nets can be treated after purchase
• avoid known areas of high mosquito-borne disease transmission or outbreaks.