Limited Spraying for West Nile Virus

LIMITED SPRAYING FOR WEST NILE VIRUS

TO BEGIN IN NASSAU COUNTY

 After consultation with the New York State Department of Health, the Nassau County Department of Public Works will begin aerial and ground spraying in parts of Nassau County to help control mosquitoes which may be carrying the West Nile virus. 

"Recent surveillance data has demonstrated an increased threat of West Nile virus.  Experts from the New York State Department of Health have advised us that the risk to the public’s health warrants the application of adulticide in certain areas of the county.  We will also continue our larvicide mosquito control program and remind residents to continue to take personal protective measures,” said Commissioner of Health Maria Torroella Carney, MD. 

Where:  Areas to be sprayed by helicopter:

·             Northern boundary: Long Island Expressway (LIE 495)

·             Southern boundary: Southern State Parkway

·             Eastern boundary: Seaford Oyster Bay Expressway (Route 135),  including Bethpage State Park

·             Western boundary: Queens border between the LIE and Southern State Parkway

         Areas to be sprayed by truck:

·             Woodmere

·             Glen Head

When:  Weather permitting, the planned schedule for truck and helicopter spraying will be on Thursday and Friday, September 4 and 5, beginning at dusk, when mosquitoes are most active, and continuing throughout the evening.  Based on weather conditions, spraying may continue next week.

What:  Scourge is a pesticide containing resmethrin and piperonyl butoxide.  Resmethrin is a man-made pyrethroid insecticide that can also be found in other pesticide products used indoors and on pets to control ticks and other insects, such as fleas and ants.  Piperonyl butoxide does not directly kill insects on its own, but acts to increase the ability of resmethrin to kill insects. These active ingredients are dissolved in a petroleum solvent.

Health Effects:  The chance of experiencing any health effects from the use of Scourge to control mosquitoes is quite low.  As with any pesticide, individuals may want to reduce or eliminate exposure.  Some particularly sensitive individuals may possibly experience short-term effects such as eye, skin, nose or throat irritation or breathing problems.

To Reduce Exposure: The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) do not require relocating or taking special precautions during mosquito control spraying. Individuals, especially pregnant women and children, should remain inside during the spraying and for about 30 minutes afterwards.  In addition, individuals may minimize exposure by

·     Keeping windows shut, setting air conditioners to re-circulate and turning window fans off during spraying

·     Keeping children's toys indoors

·     Keeping pets indoors, as well as their food, water dishes and toys

Since the effects of the ground spraying dissipate in a few hours, it is not necessary to wash off outdoor furniture or playground equipment before use, although doing so will not diminish the effectiveness of the pesticide applied.

For additional information:    Please call the West Nile Virus Mosquito Control Hotline at 1-888-844-8657, Wednesday 12 noon to 11 P.M. and Thursday 9 A.M. to 11 P.M. or contact the Nassau County Department of Health website at www.nassaucountyny.gov/agencies/health/