Truck mounted spraying fact sheet

Mosquito Control:

What You Need to Know About Truck-Mounted Spraying
Mosquito control districts or local government departments track mosquito populations to learn where
viruses, like Zika or West Nile, are spreading in a community. Truck-mounted spraying is one way to safely
kill mosquitoes in an area, especially when people in the community are getting sick from mosquito bites.

Truck-mounted spraying is used to:
ŠŠ Control and reduce the number of mosquitoes that can
spread viruses.
ŠŠ Reduce your chances of getting infected with viruses.

What are mosquito control trucks spraying?
Mosquito control trucks spray very small amounts of insecticide
into the air to kill mosquitoes. This spray is a fine mist that acts as
a fogger in the area. Mosquito control districts or local government
departments will choose what type of insecticide to use in an area.

What does the spray do?
Adulticide sprays immediately kill flying mosquitoes. Larvicide
sprays kill young mosquitoes and lasts longer than adulticide
sprays. Both products will temporarily reduce mosquito
populations in an area, but will not permanently get rid of them.

When does spraying occur?
Spraying takes place in the early evening when mosquitoes
are more active. Often, local government agencies or mosquito
control districts announce the dates and times of spraying in
the local newspaper, on district websites, through public service
announcements, by telephone, or through door-to-door notices.

How often do communities spray?
After spraying, mosquito control districts or local government
departments will track mosquito populations and treat an area
again as necessary to reduce the chances of people getting
bitten by mosquitoes that can spread viruses.

Mosquito control truck spraying insecticide into the air
Photo courtesy of Ed Freytag, City of New Orleans Mosquito & Termite Control Board

Information on Insecticides and Health:
ŠŠThe US Environmental Protection
Agency oversees the registration of
these chemicals.
ŠŠThe National Pesticide Information
Center (NPIC) provides information
online or through a toll-free number,
1-800-858-7378.
If you are experiencing health problems
for any reason, see your doctor or
healthcare provider.

Is the spray harmful to people or pets?
You aren’t likely to breathe or touch anything that has enough insecticide on it to harm you. If you are having any type of
health problems, contact your doctor or healthcare provider. The spray does not harm pets, but you may choose to bring
them inside when spraying occurs.

What should I do during spraying?
Spraying is safe. You do not need to leave an area when truck-mounted spraying for mosquito control takes place.

Mosquito Control: You Have Options.
Learn more: http://www.cdc.gov/zika/prevention/controlling-mosquitoes-at-home.html
CS266235-B

June 28, 2016