By ANNE BESTON
Larvae of the Australian southern saltmarsh mosquito have been discovered in East Auckland as biosecurity authorities fight to eradicate the pest further north.
The mosquito larvae were found on the edges of a creek in Whitford, and photos have been sent to Australia to confirm its identity.
The mosquito,
Ochlerotatus camptorhynchus, is a carrier of Ross River virus which causes aching muscles and joints, fever and chills.
New Zealand has no native virus-carrying mosquitos.
The Ministry of Health chief biosecurity officer, Dr Bob Boyd, said the latest infestation was found in Turanga Creek after a king tide last weekend.
Biosecurity staff would begin an intensive helicopter and ground check from Howick to Miranda and east to Waiheke Island for further signs.
Dr Boyd said that so far there was no evidence that the mosquito could have spread from the Kaipara Harbour, New Zealand's worst infestation of southern saltmarsh mosquito. The insect's flight range was estimated at 5km.
Up to 2710ha at Kaipara Harbour could be infested.
The Government is spending $5 million on controlling and eradicating the mosquito in Gisborne, Napier and the Kaipara and Mangawhai areas.
The Government is opting for control in the Kaipara area before a decision is made on whether the mosquito can be eradicated. Full eradication is being attempted at Napier, Gisborne, Mahia and Porangahau.
Surveys have been done in Manukau and Mangawhai harbours, and no sign of the mosquito has been found.
The mosquito is an aggressive daytime biter and the ministry wanted to hear from Whitford residents who thought they might have been bitten, Dr Boyd said.
He advised people in the Whitford area to screen open doors and windows, use insect sprays and coils, and wear long clothing and insect repellent when outdoors. The mosquitos are active around dawn, late afternoon and dusk.
nzherald.co.nz/environment
