Editor’s note: As we’ve discussed previously, aerial spraying of pesticides to control mosquitos is the most ineffective method of control. This is because these pesticides are very effective at killing predator and non-target insects, and while the mosquito populations, due to their nature as prey, rebound very quickly, the populations of predator bugs recover much more slowly. This is why in the days that follow this type of spraying, most residents will notice there are MORE mosquitos after, rather than less. As Doug Tallamy pointed out during our interview, if the city wanted to be more effective in reducing mosquito populations, larvacide dunks in ponds, swamps, and other bodies of water that breed mosquitos are much more effective and long lasting than aerial sprays. They also don’t kill non-target insects but only mosquito larvae.
HEALTH DEPARTMENT TO SPRAY FOR ADULT MOSQUITOES IN PARTS OF THE BRONX AND STATEN ISLAND TO REDUCE RISK OF WEST NILE VIRUS
Trucks Will Spray Pesticide in Parts of Bronx and Staten Island on the Nights of July 28 and 30, 2025, Weather Permitting
NEW YORK — To reduce mosquito activity and the risk of West Nile virus, the Health Department will conduct adulticide treatments in parts of the Bronx and Staten Island.
Trucks will spray pesticides in sections of the Bronx beginning Monday, July 28, 2025, between the hours of 8:30 P.M. and 6:00 A.M. the following morning, weather permitting. In case of bad weather, application in the Bronx will be delayed until Tuesday, July 29, 2025, between the hours of 8:30 P.M. and 6:00 A.M. the following morning, weather permitting.
Trucks will spray pesticides in sections of Staten Island beginning Wednesday, July 30, 2025, between the hours of 8:30 P.M. and 6:00 A.M. the following morning, weather permitting. In case of bad weather, application in Staten Island will be delayed until Thursday, July 31, 2025, between the hours of 8:30 P.M. and 6:00 A.M. the following morning, weather permitting.
The Health Department will use very low concentrations of Anvil®, 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
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Stay indoors, whenever possible.
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Air conditioners can remain on. While unnecessary, you may wish to close air conditioner vents or choose the recirculate function.
After spraying
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Wash skin and clothing exposed to pesticides with soap and water.
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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
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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.
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Make sure windows have screens. Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes.
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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.
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Make sure roof gutters are clean and draining properly.
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Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs. Keep them empty or covered if not in use. Drain water that collects in pool covers.
Report standing water by calling 311 or visiting nyc.gov/health/wnv. For more information about West Nile virus, call 311 or visit nyc.gov.
Locations of truck spraying in the Bronx for Monday, July 28, 2025
Locations of truck spraying in Staten Island for Wednesday, July 30, 2025
Banner Image: Pesticide kills bees. Image Credit – rostichep
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.