The County Vector Program has begun to implement a proactive, strategic attack on mosquitoes throughout the County.
Using a helicopter to apply mosquito larvicide, Vector Control staff will treat approximately 1000 acres of hard-to-reach, heavily vegetated habitats that are known to breed many species of mosquitoes.
“It is important to eliminate mosquito-breeding sites and control mosquitoes in the larval stage, so they don’t turn into biting adults that can transmit diseases such as West Nile virus,” said Jack Miller, Acting Director of the County of San Diego Department of Environmental Health.
The larvicide consists of ground corncob granules containing Bacillus sphaericus and Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti), which are naturally occurring bacteria registered by the Environmental Protection Agency.
Designed to dissolve in water, the larvicide kills developing mosquito larvae for up to four weeks.
The treatment is not toxic to humans, wildlife or the environment.
The Vector Control program will conduct aerial applications to key area wetlands in the county every three weeks throughout mosquito season on specific dates.
They are currently scheduled on:
• June 8, 9, 30
• July 1, 21, 22
• August 11,12
• September 1, 2, 22, 23
• October 13,14
To protect yourself from mosquito bites, use DEET, avoid going outside at dawn and dusk, and keep door and window screens in good repair.
For more tips on protecting your home, family and community, please visit the County’s West Nile virus Web site at www.SDFightTheBite.com or call toll-free at 888-551-INFO(4636).