In an effort to combat West Nile Virus, the city will spray for mosquitos across parts of southern Brooklyn on Tuesday, Sept. 6.
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As part of its ongoing assault against blood-sucking insects and the diseases they carry, the city will treat parts of southern Brooklyn with mosquito-killing pesticides next week to reduce the risk of West Nile Virus.
Trucks will spray low concentrations of Anvil 10+10, Duet, or MERUS in parts of Bath Beach, Bay Ridge, Bensonhurst, Borough Park, Dyker Heights, Gravesend, Fort Hamilton, and New Utrecht from 8:30 p.m. on Sept. 5 until 6 a.m. on Sept. 6. If the weather is poor, spraying will be delayed until Sept. 6.
Per the city’s health department, the chemicals used to control mosquito populations are largely safe for humans and pets, though people with sensitivities to spray ingredients might experience eye or throat irritation or a rash.
Brooklynites living in the affected areas should stay indoors as much as possible while spraying is occurring, but can keep their air conditioners running. Skin and clothing that come in contact with pesticides should be washed thoroughly with soap and water.
West Nile Virus — which is spread by adult mosquitos carrying the disease — has been found in mosquitos across all five boroughs this summer, according to the health department, and at least three people in the city have been infected with the disease. All three people confirmed to have the virus were hospitalized. So far this year, 247 cases of West Nile have been diagnosed across the U.S., and 13 people have died.
Roughly 80% of people infected with West Nile experience no symptoms, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, but a small number of people will develop a fever, head and body aches, joint mains, vomiting, and other symptoms. While most will recover completely, the agency warns that weakness and fatigue can last for weeks to months…
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