NT Health is suggesting a new year's resolution to Territorians stumped on what to focus on this year: be mindful of mosquitoes and the diseases they transmit.
That's why NT Health has created the S.W.A.T team - the Territory's top-secret unit for busting blood-suckers before they bite. The mission of the team is as follows:
S - screens shut: lock down all doors and windows. No unauthorised buzz-ins.
W - wear cover: long sleeves, light colours. Think tactical chic at sunset.
A - apply repellent: the good stuff, and re-apply like a pro. Smells like victory.
T - tip out water: standing water = mozzie breeding boot camp. Shut it down.
The Northern Territory is home to more than 100 different species of mosquitoes, of which some spread diseases to people, pets, and livestock.
Breeding increases during the wet season due to the increase of water in the environment. Mosquitoes can breed in even the smallest bit of still water such as a bucket, pot plant, drain or animal trough. The more places they breed, the higher the risk of disease.
Mosquitoes are active all year round, but there are times when there is increased mosquito activity. These are at dusk (sunset) and dawn (sunrise), following heavy rain and during and just after the wet season in the Top End.
Diseases transmitted by mosquitoes include Ross River virus, which can leave you feeling achy and worn out, and more serious ones like Murray Valley encephalitis and Japanese Encephalitis virus, which can be life-threatening.
Japanese encephalitis (JE) is caused by the Japanese encephalitis virus. Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain tissue and is usually caused by an infection. Infection in humans is most commonly asymptomatic. On rare occasions, it can result in severe disease with brain damage and even death. A vaccine is available from GP practices with a private prescription for those at risk.
Murray Valley encephalitis (MVE) is an uncommon but potentially fatal disease. In the NT, the MVE virus is present from February to July in the Top End and Barkly region. It can also extend into the Barkley and Central Australia in wet years.
