The Health Department has announced that it will be spraying pesticide in parts of Queens, including Maspeth, from 8:15 p.m. on Wednesday, August 27th, 2014 until 6:00 a.m. the following morning. The pesticide is meant to reduce the number of mosquitoes in the area and the risk of West Nile virus that they carry.
Here is a map showing the approximate area that will be sprayed.
When used properly, the pesticide does not pose any significant risk to human health. To avoid direct exposure, however, the Department of Health has issued several recommendations.
• 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 limiting time outdoors between dusk and dawn in areas with significant mosquito
infestations.
• Wear protective clothing when outdoors, and use an approved insect repellent containing picaridin,
DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus (not for children under three), or products that contain the active
ingredient IR3535.
• Make sure windows have screens and repair or replace screens that have tears or holes.
• 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 or covered if
not in use; drain water that collects in pool covers.
• Report standing water by calling 311 or visiting nyc.gov.
