Boulder County Uses Least Toxic Approach
Public health officials weigh the risk for mosquito-borne diseases
against the risk for human exposure to pesticides sprayed to control
mosquitoes.
The Boulder County Mosquito Control plan uses the least toxic
options, such as draining the habitats that are most likely to become
breeding grounds, using larvacide to kill mosquitos before they take
flight, and spraying pesticides at very low volumes.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) have published
three recent studies in the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR)
that discuss the toxicities associated with pesticides that were used in
three locations to control adult mosquito populations. In summary, all
three studies suggest that when applied appropriately, pesticides can
offer an effective control measure without posing a danger to humans.
Personal protection is the best way to reduce the risk of infection
from West Nile virus. Remember the four D’s:
-
Use DEET-enhanced insect repellent.
-
DRESS in long sleeves and pants.
-
Avoid the outdoors from DUSK to DAWN.
-
DRAIN standing water outside your home.
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