Pesticide initiative combats West Nile Virus in Central and Eastern Queens

The Health Department will spray parts of Central and Eastern Queens with insecticide to reduce mosquito activity. Photo courtesy of the Health Department.

By Jonathan Sperling

The NYC Health Department will spray pesticides in parts of Central and Eastern Queens overnight between Aug. 15 and Aug. 16 in order to reduce mosquito activity and the risk of West Nile Virus.

Low concentrations of insecticides will be dispensed from trucks in parts of Auburndale, Corona, Flushing, Kew Gardens Hills, Murray Hill, Pomonok and Queensboro Hill.

The approximate boundaries of the spraying are the Grand Central Parkway, Long Island Expressway, 99th Street, 50th Avenue, and Junction Boulevard to the west; Roosevelt Avenue, Grand Central Parkway, LIRR, Delong Street, Sanford Avenue, Parsons Boulevard, 46th Avenue, 162nd Street, 43rd Avenue and Northern Boulevard to the north; Utopia Avenue, 188th Street to the east; and the Long Island Expressway, Kissena Boulevard, and Jewel Avenue to the south.

The spraying will occur beginning Thursday between the hours of 8:30 p.m. and 6 a.m. the following morning, weather permitting. In case of bad weather, spraying will be delayed until Aug. 19 or Aug. 20

The pesticide is of low risk to people and pets, according to the Health Department, however people who are sensitive to spray ingredients may experience short-term eye or throat irritation, or a rash. People with respiratory conditions may also be affected.

To avoid adverse reactions, the Health Department recommends people stay indoors during the spraying. Air conditioners can remain on. It is also recommended that residents eliminate any standing water on their property, as this can act as a breeding ground for mosquitoes