Aerial Spraying for Mosquitoes Set for Tonight in Brandon/Whiting Areas
For Immediate Release: Sept. 6, 2012
Media Contact: Communication Office
Vermont Department of Health
802-863-7281
BURLINGTON – If weather conditions allow, aerial spraying for mosquitoes is set to begin tonight from 8 p.m. through 11 p.m. in two 16-square mile areas near mosquito pools that have tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE).
The Whiting spray zone is centered on Stickney Road between Cornwall and Whiting. The Brandon spray zone lies between Leicester and Brandon along nearly all of Grove Street.
For a map and more information about spraying and precautions to take for people and animals, go to www.healthvermont.gov, www.vermontagriculture.com, or dial 2-1-1.
EEE is a rare but serious and often fatal disease caused by the bite of an infected mosquito. Nationally, about six people every year are diagnosed with EEE. In Vermont, the first two human cases of EEE were confirmed on Sept. 1, and one person has died. Because the risk to public health is significant, the spraying tonight is designed to reduce the population of infected mosquitoes in the area.
The pesticide product to be used, Anvil 10+10 (Sumithrin), will be sprayed in very low volume concentrations from a fixed-wing aircraft. Sumithrin is found in other pesticides used indoors and on pets and animals to control fleas, ticks and other insects.
If exposed to these low levels of Anvil, the risk of health effects for people and other mammals is very low. To avoid any exposure, people in the spraying zones should take the following precautions:
- Stay inside or away from the area during spraying and for about 30 minutes afterwards. Keep pets with their food and water inside too.
- Close windows and doors, turn off fans and outside vents before spraying begins.
- If you come into contact with spray, rinse eyes with water immediately. Wash exposed skin. Wash clothes that come in direct contact with spray separately from other laundry.
- As always, consult your health care provider if you have health problems.
For livestock, provide water only in a covered area, or empty and turn water troughs upside down. Do not refill them until the morning. Or cover water troughs for the night. Prevent livestock from grazing on exposed pastures during the night of spraying.
All Vermonters should take the following actions to protect themselves from mosquito bites and risk of infection from EEE and West Nile virus:
- Limit the amount of time spent outdoors at dawn and dusk.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants outside when mosquitoes are active.
- Use insect repellents labeled as being effective against mosquitoes.
- Remove standing water around your house.
For more information go Healthvermont.gov or dial 2-1-1.
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