West Nile Sprayings Continue TONIGHT

The following is an email message received from Craig Johnson regarding tonight’s Nassau County Aerial Spraying for West Nile.

Dear Friends,

I’ve been alerted by the Nassau County Department of Health that last night’s planned ground spraying to prevent the spread of the West Nile Virus will be continuing TONIGHT, from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. in sections of Port Washington, Sands Point, Plandome, Plandome Manor, Plandome Heights, Manhasset, Munsey Park and Flower Hill. Additionally, aerial spraying will be occurring TONIGHT and TOMORROW NIGHT from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. throughout the entire county between Northern Boulevard and the Southern State Parkway. Based on weather conditions, this spraying may continue into next week. A map showing all areas to be sprayed can be found here.

My office has been advised that county workers and planes will be spraying low concentrations of the chemical resmethrin in order to control mosquitoes that may be carrying the West Nile virus. Resmethrin is a pesticide that can be found in other commonly used pesticide products.

These steps are being taken amid an unusually high number of mosquito pools that have recently tested positive for West Nile in Nassau County.

While the sprayings are taking place, county officials are recommending that:

Individuals, especially pregnant women and children, should remain indoors during the spraying and for approximately 30 minutes afterwards.
Windows and doors should be kept shut, window fans turned off, and air conditioners be set to re-circulate if they are able.
Children’s toys be kept indoors.
Any direct exposure to skin, eyes or clothes be immediately rinsed off with water. Consult your healthcare provider with any additional concerns.
Garden fruits and vegetables that may be consumed within the next few days be picked and washed thoroughly.
Pets, as well as their food, water dishes and toys be kept indoors.
Fish ponds be covered.
Since the effects dissipate within a few hours, it is not necessary to wash off outdoor furniture or playground equipment.

If you have any further questions, Nassau County has set up an information hotline that will be active until midnight tonight. Call 1-888-844-8657, or go to www.nassaucountyny.gov/agencies/health.

Sincerely,
Craig Johnson

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