New York City will conduct targeted mosquito control treatments in south Brooklyn neighborhoods this week after surveillance detected increased West Nile virus activity and elevated adult mosquito populations in the affected areas.
One treatment took place Monday, Aug. 17, and the next will take place Wednesday, Aug. 19. Health Department trucks will spray low concentrations of pesticide from 8:30pm to 6:00am the following morning.
“These targeted treatments are one part of our broader prevention work, and New Yorkers can help by protecting themselves from mosquito bites and removing standing water around their homes," said NYC Health Commissioner Dr. Alister F. Martin. Their mosquito surveillance has told them where the activity is increasing most, and has helped them determine where intervention is necessary, Martin said.
The department identified 60 West Nile virus-positive mosquito pools within the Aug. 17 treatment area and 40 positive pools within the Aug. 19 area. It considers mosquito populations, infection rates, weather conditions, population density and the presence of parks and other green spaces when determining where treatment is warranted.
The department will use Duet, an EPA-registered mosquito control product, applied through truck-mounted equipment. The risks to people and pets are considered low, though people who are sensitive to spray ingredients could experience temporary eye or throat irritation or a mild rash. Those with respiratory conditions may choose to remain indoors during spraying.
Residents can help limit mosquito exposure by using EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus, wearing long sleeves and pants outdoors and keeping windows and doors with screens.
Residents should also remove standing water from buckets, flowerpots, birdbaths, tarps, gutters and other containers around their homes. Swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs should be cleaned, chlorinated and covered when not in use.
Standing water can be reported through 311, while maps of the treatment areas and additional information are available from the NYC Health Department.
