Health Brooklyn Boro

Mosquito spraying comes to Cobble Hill, Carroll Gardens

August 23, 2021 Brooklyn Eagle Staff
A helicopter with the New York City Health Department flies over Staten Island en route to spreading granules of mosquito larvicide on marshland in Brooklyn. AP Photo/Mark Lennihan
Share this:

To reduce the risk of West Nile virus and mosquito activity in general, the Health Department plans to conduct an adulticide treatment in several sections of Brooklyn on Aug. 26.

While mosquitoes usually breed and thrive near the water’s edge, one of the areas is basically inland. It includes parts of Carroll Gardens, Cobble Hill, Gowanus, Greenwood Heights, Park Slope, Prospect-Lefferts Gardens, Sunset Park and Windsor Terrace.

The other area is closer to the water’s edge in Southeast Brooklyn —parts of Bergen Beach, Canarsie, Georgetown, Gerritsen Beach, Marine Park, Mill Basin, Mill Island, Paerdegat Basin, Sheepshead Bay, and Starrett City.

Subscribe to our newsletters

Adulticide refers to the spraying of adult mosquitoes, while larvicide refers to the spraying of mosquito larvae before they grow into adults. Both are done at different times by the city’s Health Department.

Trucks will spray pesticides in both sections of Brooklyn on Thursday, Aug. 26, between the hours of 8:30 p.m. and 6 a.m. the following morning, weather permitting. In case of bad weather or equipment malfunctions, application will be delayed until Monday, Aug. 30.

Health Commissioner Dr. Dave Chokshi. Photo courtesy of NYC Mayor’s Office

The Health Department will use very low concentrations of Anvil®, Duet®, or DeltaGard®. The risks of pesticides applied by the Health Department for mosquito control are low to people and pets, according to the department. However, 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.

“We urge everyone to take simple precautions to keep themselves and their families safe from mosquito bites,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Dave Chokshi. “When outside, wear mosquito repellent, cover your arms and legs, discard standing water and install window screens to reduce your risk.”

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, the department adds.

To stay safe during spraying, stay indoors, whenever possible. Air conditioners can remain on. After spraying, wash skin and clothing exposed to pesticides with soap and water, and always wash fruits and vegetables with water, the Health Department says.


Leave a Comment

Related Articles

Leave a Comment