ACT Health has launched the first stage of a mosquito survey to enable a better understanding of the mosquito population in Canberra and to assess their potential to carry disease.

Announcing the survey ACT Chief Health Officer, Dr Paul Kelly, said a further survey would be conducted early next year.

“The survey, being conducted by the Department of Entomology at the University of Sydney, will involve trapping mosquitoes in various locations across Canberra using mosquito traps. The traps will be placed at several sites in Canberra close to lakes and nature reserves,” Dr Kelly said.

“The collected mosquitoes will then be analysed including identifying the species and testing for pathogens.

“The results of the survey will enable a better understanding about the risk to human health from mosquitoes in the ACT.

“It will also enable targeted public health messaging to advise the public of the risk of exposure to mosquitoes.

“Mosquito activity increases over summer, increasing the danger of mosquito-borne diseases such as Barmah Forest virus and Ross River virus.”

Dr Kelly said there were about 4500 cases of Ross River Virus and 1600 cases of Barmah Forest Virus disease reported in Australia each year, with an average of 10 and 3 cases respectively reported each year.

“There is a lack of data about the mosquito populations in Canberra compared to elsewhere in NSW where the NSW arbovirus surveillance program has been undertaken,” he said.

“To prevent mosquito-borne diseases, people are advised to take steps to avoid mosquito bites. This includes protecting yourself with clothing and insect repellents, protecting your home with screens and removing collections of water around the house where mosquitoes can breed.”