Aug. 16, 2021 By Michael Dorgan
The city will begin spraying pesticides to keep the number of mosquitos at bay in parts of western Queens on Aug. 17.
The spraying–which will be from trucks–will begin at around 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday night and will continue until 6 a.m. the following day, according to the NYC Department of Health.
The spraying will occur largely in the northwestern section of western Queens in the 11101, 11102, 11103, 11104, 11105, 11369, 11370, 11371, and 11377 zip codes.
The area roughly spans Shore Boulevard in Astoria and Ditmars Steinway to 94th Street in East Elmhurst.
Other neighborhoods included in the spraying are Jackson Heights, Sunnyside and Woodside.
The health department says it will be spraying very low concentrations of Anvil®, Duet®, or DeltaGard® from trucks to reduce mosquito activity and combat the risk of West Nile virus.
The pesticides present low risk to people and pets, but some people who are sensitive to spray ingredients may experience short term eye or throat irritation, or a rash, according to the agency. People with respiratory conditions may also be affected.
The DOH recommends area residents to stay indoors whenever possible during spraying, and that, while unnecessary, air conditioners may be turned off.
The agency also says, while unnecessary, that outdoor toys and equipment can be washed down with soap and water after spraying. Skin and clothing exposed to pesticides should be washed with soap and water, while fruits and vegetables should be washed with water.
For more information, visit the DOH’s page on mosquitoes.