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Madison County will conduct aerial spraying over 11,000 acres in Sullivan to combat mosquito-borne illnesses, including Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and West Nile Virus. The spraying is scheduled for tomorrow night (August 15) from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. If weather conditions are unfavorable, the spraying will be postponed to Saturday (August 16). The targeted area is south of State Route 31, west of Lakeport Road, east of Bridgeport-Kirkville Road, and north of Fyler Road.
The decision to spray follows the detection of EEE and West Nile Virus in mosquito pools collected in the area. According to CNY Central, the viruses were found in mosquitoes known to bite birds, animals, and humans. Although no human cases have been confirmed, the county is taking precautionary measures to protect residents.
Health officials advise residents to stay indoors during the spraying and for 30 minutes afterward to minimize exposure. They also recommend rinsing homegrown produce and washing outdoor tables and play equipment after the spraying. The pesticide used, Kontrol 30-30, will be applied following guidelines from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the New York State Department of Health.
A statement from Erica Bird, Madison County's public health deputy director, emphasized the importance of mosquito bite prevention, as there is no vaccine for EEE in humans. Residents are encouraged to use insect repellent and take measures to reduce mosquito breeding grounds.
The aerial spraying is part of ongoing efforts to monitor and control mosquito populations in the area. For more information, residents can visit the Madison County Public Health website or contact the health department directly.