Health District identifies high-risk zone for West Nile virus
Delaware, OH – The Delaware Public Health District has announced that mosquito spraying will take place on Monday, July 3, and Wednesday, July 5 in the City of Delaware. This decision comes after a mosquito collection trap tested positive for West Nile virus.
The targeted area for spraying includes the region west of the Olentangy River, east of Section Line Road, north of Hawthorne Boulevard, and south of Hills Miller Road.
The spraying process will commence around dusk using marked Health District trucks. In light of this, residents are advised to bring their children and pets indoors during the spraying operation. However, if weather conditions are unsuitable on Monday and Wednesday, the Health District staff will resume spraying on Thursday, July 6, and Friday, July 7.
Residents must submit requests by Monday, July 3, to opt out of spraying
Residents who do not wish to have their properties sprayed may contact the Health District at (740) 368-1700 to be added to the no-spray list. Alternatively, an online form can be filled out at this link: https://arcg.is/1Cy1fb1. The deadline for submitting requests is 12 pm on Monday, July 3.
Take Preventive Measures
All residents are strongly encouraged to take precautions against mosquito bites. The most effective preventive measure is to eliminate standing water where mosquitoes can breed. It is essential to ensure that flowerpots, bird baths, tarps, gutters, and other potential breeding sites are free of stagnant water. Additionally, it is advisable to avoid outdoor activities during the morning and evening when mosquitoes are most active. If venturing outdoors during these times, wearing light-colored, long-sleeved clothing and applying an EPA-registered insect repellent is recommended.
Details about the spray used and its composition
The mosquito spray employed for this operation is known as DUET adulticide, manufactured by Clarke, a company based in Chicago. The spray droplets are calibrated to a size that causes them to fall to the ground within approximately 15 minutes. Upon exposure to air and sunlight, the spray begins to break down immediately.
DUET adulticide is applied at a rate of 1 ounce per acre, roughly equivalent to the size of a shot glass for an area comparable to a football field. Only 11% of the spray’s composition constitutes the active ingredient.
The active ingredient in DUET adulticide belongs to the pyrethroids class, which is the same class found in lice shampoo, dog flea collars, and outdoor clothing pre-treated to repel bugs. Clarke has confirmed that spraying can proceed even during air quality alerts, assuring the public that it will have no impact on air quality. It is recommended to follow the current air quality precautions outlined by the Ohio Department of Health.
For more information, please contact the Delaware Public Health District at (740) 368-1700 or visit their website at www.DelawareHealth.org.