Brooklyn residents in designated areas should expect overnight mosquito-control treatments on Wednesday, Sept. 23, as the New York City Health Department works to reduce adult mosquito populations and the risk of West Nile virus.
The treatment is scheduled from 8:30pm on Wednesday until 6:00am on Thursday, if weather permits. If weather conditions prevent the operation, the treatment will take place during the same hours on Thursday, Sept. 24.
The Brooklyn treatment is part of the city’s ongoing mosquito surveillance and control program. The Health Department uses mosquito and West Nile virus surveillance data to identify areas where targeted treatment may help reduce mosquito activity.
“Mosquito control is most effective when we use the information we collect throughout the season to act where it can make a difference,” said Dr. Alister F. Martin, NYC Health commissioner. “These targeted treatments are one of the tools we use to reduce the number of mosquitoes and help protect New Yorkers. People can do their part too by clearing standing water around their homes and using insect repellent when spending time outdoors.”
Parts of Queens are included in the same overnight operation, while a separate treatment is scheduled for designated areas of Manhattan.
The Health Department will use "Duet," an EPA-registered mosquito-control product, applied with truck-mounted equipment. The department says the risks to people and pets are low when the product is used for mosquito control.
People who are particularly sensitive to spray ingredients may experience temporary eye or throat irritation or a mild rash. Residents with respiratory conditions may choose to remain indoors during the treatment period.
Brooklyn residents can help protect themselves by using EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus and wearing long sleeves and pants when outdoors in areas with mosquito activity. Windows and doors should have properly fitted screens.
Residents should also remove standing water from buckets, flowerpots, birdbaths, tarps, gutters and other containers. Pools, hot tubs and outdoor saunas should be cleaned, maintained and covered when not in use. Standing water can be reported through 311.
According to the Center for Disease Control, around 80 percent of people infected with West Nile Virus do not experience symptoms, and less than 1 percent develop serious illness will long-term effects.
