Territorians are being urged to clean up around their properties and wear protective clothing while outside in mosquito prone situations to avoid contracting Ross River virus.
Recent rains around the Top End have led to a rise in the number of mosquitoes around rural and urban areas.
Common Top End mosquitoes, the domestic container breeding mosquito and common banded mosquito, have the potential to carry the debilitating Ross River virus so any reduction in breeding sites near houses reduces the potential of contracting it.
Medical Entomologist Peter Whelan urged Territorians to check containers that can hold water to prevent potential mosquito problems.
"Pot plant drip trays, old tyres, drums, boats, palm frond bases, and anything around the house that holds water can become an artificial breeding site for the domestic container breeding mosquito," he said.
"Residents are encouraged to tip out water containers that could be a breeding site.
"Roof gutters clogged with leaves can also become a mossie breeding site and should be cleared so they drain freely."
Mr Whelan urged people living in or visiting rural areas, particularly near wet lands or water courses to cover up against mosquito attacks over the next three months.
"Wear protective clothing and repellents in the evening and at night. Stay inside screened accommodation and avoid flooded areas and wetlands in the evenings unless you're well protected.
January and February are the months of highest risk of contracting Ross River virus."
Media enquiries: Cameron Jackson, DHCS Media Support Officer 0401 116 144
Release date: 4 February 2008
