MOSQUITO SPRAY SCHEDULE RELEASED FOR WEEK OF MAY 13

The Shelby County Health Department (SCDH) has received confirmation of mosquitoes infected with West Nile virus (WNV) within the areas of ZIP codes 38018, 38104, and 38109. Mosquitoes carrying West Nile Virus have been previously found in ZIP codes 38116, 38122, 38127, 38133, 38125, 38017, and 38141.

Since April, the SCHD Vector Control Program has treated areas by applying larvicides to standing bodies of water, actions consistent with its efforts to be proactive in decreasing the adult mosquito population. Larviciding is the practice of applying an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insecticide to areas where mosquito breeding has been confirmed and is the most effective way of eliminating mosquito populations.

As an additional precaution, the SCHD will also conduct truck-mounted spraying (adulticiding) of EPA-approved insecticides, weather permitting, in portions specific ZIP codes according to the following schedule:

Tuesday, May 14

8:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

ZIP Codes: 38108, 38111, 38112, 38117, 38120, 38122, 38128, 38134

Wednesday, May 15  

8:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

ZIP Codes: 38002, 38053, 38133, 38135

Thursday, May 16  

8:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

ZIP Codes: 38018, 38028, 38115, 38125, 38141

Monday, May 20

8:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

ZIP Codes: 38053, 38104, 38106, 38111, 38114, 38127

Individuals with chronic health problems such as asthma or other lung conditions may want to remain indoors during the time of spraying if they live in one of the affected areas. Residents who do not want their residences to be sprayed should contact the SCHD Vector Control Program at (901) 222-9715.

To ensure cases of human West Nile Virus are minimized, residents are also encouraged to be vigilant as it relates to controlling mosquito populations around their homes and businesses by taking the following precautions:

·        Wear DEET-containing mosquito repellants according to label directions

·        Eliminate standing water where mosquitoes can lay eggs. Check properties for objects - including old tires, flower pots and drip plates, tin cans, buckets, and children’s toys - that collect rainwater and either drain or dispose of the water

·        Install or repair windows and door screens

·        Empty, clean and refill birdbaths and small wading pools weekly

·        Empty and refill pets’ water bowls every few days

·        Repair failed septic systems

·        Repair leaky outside faucets

·        Clean rain gutters and down spouts

·        Secure swimming pool covers tightly and remove any standing water after rainfall

·        Store wheelbarrows, canoes and boats upside down

·        Stock ornamental lawn ponds with fish (Gambusia) which eat mosquito larvae. Gambusia fish are available FREE from the Vector Control Program – please call for availability.

Health officials strongly encourage residents to refrain from sitting outdoors at night unless wearing repellant, regardless of perceived mosquito activity.

A copy of the 2011 WNV report can be found at http://shelbycountytn.gov/index.aspx?NID=2404.