Risk Background

The mosquito, Aedes albopictus, is a vector of several exotic indigenous arboviruses affecting both animals and humans.

Imported used tyres on rims represent a lower level of biosecurity risk than those that come in without rims. This assessment is based on the assumption that tyres with the rims attached and the bead sealed (the point at which the tyre is joined to the rim), combine to ensure that water build up inside the tyres is virtually eliminated.

Tyres without rims however can catch and hold rainwater if stored outside. In the situation of the tyres with rims, the risk of mosquito eggs and larvae being present is therefore significantly reduced.