Town to spray for mosquitoes
June 22, 2023--Due to an increase of West Nile virus activity in Northern Colorado and the high levels of mosquitoes trapped this week, the Town of Mead hopes to decrease the risk of human West Nile virus (WNV) infection by spraying for adult mosquitoes.
The Town’s contractor, Vector Disease Control International, will use a permethrin-based product (AquaKontrol3030) and truck equipment to perform town wide spraying on Sunday June 25, weather permitting. The application will begin immediately after sunset and be completed before sunrise the next morning. Products utilized in these adult mosquito control applications is considered safe for humans and pets. Residents interested in minimizing their exposure are encouraged to stay indoors and keep doors and windows closed for 30 to 60 minutes after spraying. Residents can further minimize pesticide exposure by covering organic gardens, ponds, and water features with a cloth sheet or tarp.
In addition to community control efforts, residents can reduce water where mosquitoes can breed and spray for adult mosquitoes. Individuals should remember to use the 4 D’s to help prevent West Nile virus disease:
- DEET or other effective mosquito repellent - Use a mosquito repellent that has been proven to be effective against West Nile Virus-carrying mosquitoes. DEET, Picaridin, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (also called p-menthane-3,8-diol or PMD) and IR3535 are recommended.
- Dusk to Dawn - Avoid exposure during peak mosquito feeding times, from dusk through dawn.
- Dress - Wear long sleeves and pants to keep mosquitoes from biting.
- Drain – Remove standing water in your yard or garden to minimize mosquito breeding areas
For more tips on what you can do to prevent West Nile virus, visit www.VDCI.net/Colorado
