Mosquito fogging begins tomorrow

Pinal County Environmental Health Services announced today adult mosquito fogging will be conducted in Maricopa tomorrow through Thursday from 1 to 5 a.m. Mosquitoes trapped during routine surveillance for West Nile virus tested positive, resulting in the need to fog the area to prevent transmission of the disease to humans.

So far this year, there has not been a reported human case of the virus in Pinal County.

The areas fogged are bordered by John Wayne Parkway to the east, Sage Brush Drive to the south, Green Road to the west and McDavid Road to the north.    

The pesticide that will be used during fogging is called Anvil. It is registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and is effective against the mosquitoes that carry West Nile virus.

 There are several things that residents can do to reduce exposure during fogging:

• Close all windows and doors.
• Air conditioners can still be operated, but if they have vents to bring in outside air, they should be closed.
• Turn off evaporative coolers.
• Stay inside your home.
• If possible, bring pets inside.

Thirty minutes after the end of the scheduled fogging each night, you may resume normal activities.

West Nile virus is transmitted to humans and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito. West Nile virus can cause severe illness in people and horses, although not everyone who is infected will develop symptoms. People of all ages can be affected. However, older adults are more prone to serious illness.

County health officials urge all county residents to “Fight the Bite” and follow these simple personal precautions to avoid mosquitoes and the diseases they may carry:

Avoid outside activity between dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.

If you must be outdoors when mosquitoes are active, wear lightweight clothing that covers your arms and legs and use an insect repellent containing an EPA registered active ingredient such as DEET, Picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Always follow the directions on the label.

Make sure doors and windows have tight-tighting screens and remain closed. Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes in them.

Eliminate mosquito-breeding sites around the home by removing standing water in potted plants, tires, bird baths and other containers where water may collect.

Ensure that swimming pools and decorative water features are properly maintained.

Change water in flowerpots, birdbaths and pet watering bowls located outdoors at least twice per week.