Mosquitoes can carry diseases that make you sick. Japanese encephalitis is one of these diseases. There have been several cases of Japanese encephalitis detected in Victoria recently.

You can reduce your risk of being bitten and becoming sick by following these steps:
• Mozzies can bite through tight clothing. Cover up – wear long, loose-fitting clothing.
• Use repellents that contain picaridin or DEET on all exposed skin.
• Use mosquito nets or insect screens.
• Use ’knockdown’ fly spray, mosquito coils or plug-in repellent where you gather to sit or eat.
• If mosquito numbers are high, limit activity outdoors and move indoors if possible.

Tip: Citronella candles aren’t effective enough! Mozzie repellents are your best defense against mosquito bites.