Northern Territory Government
NT Health Territorians reminded to be mosquito-mindful between October and January
13 October 2025
As Darwin enters the wet season, Top Enders are reminded to be mosquito-mindful during the peak-population period from October to January.
The current high tide is expected to trigger extensive salt marsh mosquito breeding, with adult mosquitoes being able to fly from 17 October.
Salt marsh mosquitoes are aggressive biters that can transmit mosquito-borne diseases such as Ross River virus and the Barmah Forest virus disease.
NT Health has carried out surveys to detect the salt marsh mosquito, and control operations in Darwin urban areas and the wetlands bordering the northern suburbs between 9 and 13 October.
This announcement comes as NT Health sounds the alarm to look out for the menagerie of other wet season monsters: murky mud, menacing stingers, mango madness, and mean extreme heat.
The Northern Territory is home to more than 100 different species of mosquitoes, of which some spread diseases to people, pets, and livestock.
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.
To minimise the chance of being bitten by mosquitoes people should:
🟠 Wear protective light-coloured clothing with long sleeves, long trousers, and ankle protection with socks, in areas where mosquito bites are likely.
🟠 Use a protective repellent containing DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus (PMD) and other mosquito protection devices as a supplement to protective clothing when outdoors in areas of mosquito activity.
🟠 Avoid exposure to coastal swamps and mangrove areas.
🟠 Use mosquito coils, lanterns and barrier sprays in outdoor areas and near the home to prevent mosquitoes from entering houses.
🟠 Ensure infants, children and animals are adequately protected against mosquito bites.
