Mineola, NY—The Nassau County Departments of Health and Public Works have begun mosquito surveillance and control activities for the 2018 season. The Departments continue to work together to help control the spread of mosquito-borne diseases.
The Health Department conducts mosquito surveillance. This includes trapping and collection of adult mosquitoes which began this week at 43 sites throughout Nassau County. Additional surveillance activities include: identifying species; determining population distribution and abundance; separating and sending selected mosquitoes for viral testing; and thoroughly investigating all cases of suspect or confirmed encephalitis, including West Nile virus, to determine the source of infection.
The Department of Public Works (DPW) provides mosquito control. This includes monitoring and treating with larvicides, when appropriate, thousands of street basins, sumps, ponds and hundreds of miles of fresh water streams; checking suspect breeding sites for the presence of larvae; and maintaining “ditches” on the county’s south shore which allow fish to reach and consume mosquito eggs, larvae and pupae. DPW will continue applications of larvicide in the non-populated areas in the south shore salt marshes as needed to control populations of salt marsh mosquitoes.
Mosquitoes can easily and rapidly increase its population. It is important that residents take measures to eliminate breeding grounds and stop the cycle before it begins. Here are some steps residents can take to prevent mosquitoes from breeding and protect human health:
- Eliminate standing water from containers, flowerpots, watering cans, buckets, old tires, recycling bins and gutters. Clear leaves and debris to allow water to flow freely from roof gutters.
- Maintain lawns and landscapes to prevent overgrowth.
- Repair window and door screens to keep insects outside.
- Cover skin when outdoors for long periods of time and use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents.
For complaints concerning mosquitoes or standing water, contact the Nassau County Department of Public Works at (516) 571-6900.
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