Editor’s note: As in the previous mosquito spraying session, the insecticides often also kill non- target insects including predators, butterflies, and bees. It may be effective to mitigate these potential secondary effects by covering plants that are harboring beneficial insects with wet burlap to reduce the settling of the insecticides onto the areas where insects are sleeping at night. This is not always possible, particularly with large oak trees but may work with smaller plants. Staten Islander News has previously covered other mosquito spraying efforts this season.
HEALTH DEPARTMENT TO SPRAY FOR ADULT MOSQUITOES IN PARTS OF STATEN ISLAND AND THE BRONX TO REDUCE RISK OF WEST NILE VIRUS
Trucks will spray pesticide in parts of Staten Island and the Bronx in the evening of Monday, August 19, 2024, and Wednesday, August 21, 2024 August 15, 2024 –
To reduce mosquito activity and the risk of West Nile virus, the Health Department will conduct an adulticide treatment in Staten Island and the Bronx.
Trucks will spray pesticides in sections of Staten Island beginning on Monday, August 19, 2024, between the hours of 8:30 PM and 6:00 AM the following morning and in the Bronx on Wednesday, August 21, 2024 between the hours of 8:30 PM and 6:00 AM the following morning.
In case of bad weather, application will be delayed until Tuesday, August 20, 2024, and Thursday, August 22, 2024, respectively, between the hours of 8:30 P.M. and 6:00 A.M. the following morning.
The Health Department will use very low concentrations of Anvil® 10+10, Duet® or MERUS® 3. The risks of pesticides applied by the Health Department for mosquito control are low to people and pets.
Some people who are sensitive to spray ingredients may experience short-term eye or throat irritation, or a rash. People with respiratory conditions may also be affected.
To stay safe during spraying:
• Stay indoors, whenever possible.
• Air conditioners can remain on. While unnecessary, you may wish to close air conditioner vents, or choose the recirculate function.
After spraying:
• Wash skin and clothing exposed to pesticides with soap and water.
• Always wash fruits and vegetables with water.
The most effective way to control mosquitoes is to eliminate any standing water. New Yorkers are also encouraged to mosquito-proof their homes and take precautions when spending time outdoors.
Reducing exposure to mosquitoes
• Use an approved insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus (not for children under 3), or products that contain the active ingredient IR3535.
• Make sure windows have screens. Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes.
• Eliminate any standing water from your property and dispose of containers that can collect water. Standing water is a violation of the New York City Health Code.
Banner Image: Bees, an unintended target of the broad spectrum insecticides used. Image Credit – Damien TUPINIER
NYC Dept of Health and Mental Hygiene
The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene is the department of the government of New York City responsible for public health along with issuing birth certificates, dog licenses, and conducting restaurant inspection and enforcement. The New York City Board of Health is part of the department. Its regulations are compiled in title 24 of the New York City Rules (the New York City Health Code). Since March 2022, the commissioner has been Ashwin Vasan.