How effective is spraying?
When done by a licensed pesticide applicator, spraying is very effective at reducing the numbers of adult mosquitoes.
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What harm is involved in spraying?
Spraying often uses minimal amounts of pesticides. Thus, the harmful effects are minimal. Despite the minimal risk, simply remaining indoors during the spraying process will further reduce unnecessary exposures and subsequent reactions.
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Will there be spraying in my neighborhood?
It is possible.
Boulder County Public Health (BCPH) will be working very closely with mosquito control agencies and the local municipalities to monitor the risk for WNV.
When the mosquito population increases and mosquitoes have tested positive for WNV, BCPH will make
spraying recommendations to municipalities in order to reduce risks for human illness.
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Will spraying harm my animals?
Similar to humans, the low level of pesticides used creates minimal risk. However, bringing pets indoors when spraying occurs further reduces these risks.
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Will the City of Boulder spray pesticides to control mosquitoes?
Boulder's City Manager, with support from the City Council, has integrated a spraying contingency into their mosquito control efforts. Even with this change from last year's approach, approximately 95% of all mosquito control efforts do not include the use of chemicals. This includes larval and habitat control.
However, even in areas where spraying has already occurred or will occur later this year, residents should still take precautions to reduce their exposure to mosquitoes by following the
4D's.
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