Health Department scheduled to spray for West Nile in parts of 11228 and 11209

To reduce mosquito activity and the risk of West Nile virus, the Health Department will spray pesticide from trucks in parts of Brooklyn and Queens on Thursday, August 22, 2013 between the hours of 8:15 p.m. and 6 a.m. the following morningParts of Bath Beach, Bay Ridge and Dyker Heights will be sprayed The borders are as follows: Bay Ridge Parkway to the North; 4th Avenue to the West; Belt Parkway to the South; and 16th Avenue to the East.

For these sprayings, the Health Department will use a very low concentration of Anvil^® 10+10, a synthetic pesticide. When properly used, this product poses no significant risks to human health. The Health Department recommends that people take the following precautions to minimize direct exposure:

Whenever possible, stay indoors during spraying. People with asthma or other respiratory conditions are encouraged to stay inside during spraying since direct exposure could worsen these conditions.

Air conditioners may remain on, however, if you wish to reduce the possibility of indoor exposure to pesticides, set the air conditioner vent to the closed position, or choose the re-circulate function.

Remove children’s toys, outdoor equipment, and clothes from outdoor areas during spraying. If outdoor equipment and toys are exposed to pesticides, wash them with soap and water before using again.

Wash skin and clothing exposed to pesticides with soap and water. Always wash your produce thoroughly with water before cooking or eating.

Reducing Exposure to Mosquitoes

Consider reducing the amount of time spent outdoors during the hours between dusk and dawn in areas with heavy mosquito populations.

Use an approved insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus (not for children under three).

Eliminate any standing water from your 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 and covered if not in use; drain water that collects in pool covers.

Report standing water by calling 311 or visiting nyc.gov.

Make sure windows have screens, and repair or replace screens that have tears or holes.