The City of Des Moines has scheduled a community-wide adult mosquito control treatment beginning on the evening of August 25, weather permitting, due to the detection of West Nile virus-positive mosquitoes.
The applications will be performed by Clarke, the City's contracted mosquito management provider. The treatment will help reduce the local adult mosquito populations that can transmit the virus, helping preserve the health and comfort of residents.
"The City has been in constant communication with our partner, Clarke," Deputy Director of Neighborhood Services SuAnn Donovan said. "We worked quickly to put together a plan to address the mosquito population effectively and safely throughout the City."
The treatments will start tonight and be completed by Sunday. Crews will apply treatments using truck-mounted Ultra-Low-Volume (ULV) spray machines that do not endanger the environment or humans. Residents can also take additional measures to protect themselves.
"This is the time of year when we start to see mosquitoes test positive for West Nile Virus," said Nola Aigner Davis, Public Health Communications Officer, Polk County Health Department. "The best way to prevent West Nile Virus is to protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites. When going outside, use insect repellent and wear long-sleeved shirts and pants. Remove any standing water from your home. This will prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs in or near water. We encourage you to empty and scrub, turn over, cover or throw out items that hold water once a week."
Testing will continue through the fall to track mosquito populations and monitor the West Nile Virus. For more information regarding West Nile Virus and prevention, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/westnile/.
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