New technique puts the bite on mosquito numbers in the Peel region

9/1/02
A new way to control mosquito numbers is being progressively implemented in the Peel region, Health Minister Bob Kucera said today.
Mr Kucera said the technique, known as runnelling, would reduce the number of mosquitoes in close proximity to people's homes.
"Mosquito bites are not only irritating and itchy, but they can potentially cause illnesses such as Ross River Virus," he said.
"Runnelling, which works by enhancing tidal flow between stagnant pools in the saltmarshes, will reduce the reliance on chemical larvicides and improve the standard of living for many local residents.
"Runnels have been installed at five sites to date and a further two sites are planned for today.
"The runnels are typically between 10 and 20 centimetres deep and 30-60 centimetres wide. They can be between one and 100m in length.
"A specially-designed machine with very low ground pressure, to minimise its impact on the environment, will install the runnels at 35 saltmarshes over the next four years."
Mr Kucera said runnelling was a valuable addition to the current mosquito control program, which included aerial application of larvicides, occasional spraying of adult mosquitoes during recognised Ross River Virus outbreaks and ground-based application of larvicides.
"I took part in the aerial larvicide program and saw runnelling in action last month and the overall program is very impressive," the Minister said.
"Runnelling is part of an integrated strategy to reduce mosquito numbers in the region, which will result in significant benefits for local residents.
"However, it is important that people realise that runnelling is not always appropriate. It does not work on all saltmarshes and should not be seen as a green light for further residential development close to the saltmarshes."
Mr Kucera said that while the current four-year trial included 35 saltmarshes in close proximity to residential areas in the Peel region, there were approximately 50 additional saltmarshes totalling over 500ha that would not be included.
"These saltmarshes will continue to produce mosquitoes that may disperse into residential areas under some environmental conditions," he said.
"Therefore, people should continue to be vigilant in protecting themselves against mosquitoes."
Some tips for avoiding mosquito bites include:

• avoiding outdoor exposure from dusk and at night in all areas of high mosquito activity;

• ensuring insect screens are installed and completely mosquito-proof. Use mosquito nets and mosquito-proof tents;

• wearing protective personal repellent containing diethyl toluamide (DEET) or picaridin, as well as protective clothing when outdoors. The most effective and long-lasting formulations are lotions or gels. Most natural or organic repellents are not as effective as DEET or picaridin. Electronic repellers and mosquito traps are not effective self-protection devices; and

• ensuring infants and children are adequately protected against mosquito bites, preferably with suitable clothing, bednets or other forms of insect screening.