Parts of Sunset, Park Slope and more to be sprayed for West Nile

To reduce mosquito activity and the risk of West Nile virus, the Department of Health (DOH) will spray pesticide from trucks in parts of South Brooklyn on Wednesday, September 9 between the hours of 8:30 p.m. and 6 a.m. the following morning, weather permitting.

In case of bad weather, application will be delayed until Thursday, September 10 during the same hours.

The neighborhoods include parts of Crown Heights, Greenwood Heights, Kensington, Park Slope, Prospect Lefferts Garden, Prospect Heights, Prospect Park South, Sunset Park and Windsor Terrace.

Specific boundaries include: Bordered by Atlantic Avenue, Carlton Avenue, Flatbush Avenue, Prospect Park West, 15^th Street, and Fifth Avenue to the North; Fifth Avenue and 52^nd Street to the West; Fort Hamilton Parkway and Caton Avenue to the South; and Flatbush Avenue and Franklin Avenue to the East.

According to DOH, the chosen neighborhoods are being treated due to rising West Nile virus activity and have high mosquito populations.

While when properly used, DOH says the product poses to significant risks to human health, local residents are urged to 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.