To reduce mosquito activity and the risk of the West Nile virus, the City’s health department will conduct a third aerial “larviciding treatment” of the season on certain marshes and wetland areas in the Bronx from Monday, Aug. 2 to Wednesday, Aug. 4, between the hours of 6 a.m. and 7 p.m., weather permitting.

 

A helicopter will be used to treat non-residential areas only. While three days have been allotted for the aerial larviciding, the process may be completed in less time. In case of bad weather, the process will be delayed until Thursday, Aug. 5, to Friday, Aug. 6, during the same hours.

 

The health department monitors mosquitoes that carry the West Nile virus. Department officials are investigating one suspected human case, but so far there have been no confirmed cases this season. During warm weather, mosquitoes can breed in any still water that has been standing for more than five days. In the targeted areas, existing hot and wet weather conditions can cause a rise in mosquito populations.

 

Due to size and limited accessibility, the target areas will be treated using a low-flying helicopter. The locations of the aerial larviciding treatment are identified in the attached chart.

 

 

Health department officials said they will use environmentally friendly larvicides to kill young mosquitoes before they grow into adults. They said VectoBac® GS contains naturally occurring bacteria and will be used for this process. The product has been approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. It will be used on mosquito breeding grounds throughout the mosquito season.

 

The most effective way to control mosquitoes is to eliminate any standing water. New Yorkers are encouraged to mosquito-proof their homes and take precautions when spending time outdoors.

 

People can reduce their exposure to mosquitoes by taking the following actions.

• Use an approved insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus (not for children under three), 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 property and dispose of containers that can collect water. Standing water is a violation of the New York City Health Code.

• Make sure roof gutters are clean and draining properly.

• 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 by visiting nyc.gov/health/wnv.

 

For more information about West Nile virus, call 311 or visit nyc.gov.