WAKEFIELD — Today, the East Middlesex Mosquito Control Project (EMMCP) is planning to use a truck mounted aerosol sprayer to reduce mosquito populations. The areas of focus in Wakefield are Pleasant Street, Centre Street, Bartley Street, Nahant Street, Holland Road, Preston Street, Butler Avenue, Rosemary Avenue and Andrews Road.
Spraying will be done between sunset and 11:30 p.m. If postponed, the area will be rescheduled for Thursday, September 9, 2021. The EMMCP previously sprayed in areas of Wakefield on July 21 and 22.
Last week, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) announced the first human case of West Nile virus (WNV) in the state this year. The individual was likely exposed to the virus in Middlesex County, an area known to be at moderate risk.
The mosquito control product being used is Zenivex E4 (EPA Reg No. 2724.807), and it’s being applied at 1 oz per acre. Zenivex E4 is a non-ester pyrethroid and is classified by the EPA as a reduced risk pesticide. Mosquito control applications of Zenivex E4 do not pose a significant risk to people or their pets due to the low toxicity and the small amount used to control mosquitoes. As with any pesticide, people should minimize their exposure.
If residents see a spray truck approaching, they are advised to go indoors for a few minutes while the spray dissipates. Residents are also advised to close windows. Beekeepers do not need to take any special precautions since spraying begins after dusk. Zenivex E4 biodegrades rapidly and therefore doesn’t build up in the environment.
If residents have any questions related to mosquitoes or mosquito control, contact the EMMCP at 781-899-5730. The spray schedule can be found at https://sudbury.ma.us/emmcp.
