Health Dept. Advice: Queens Residents To Take Precautions Against Mosquitoes

Three area residents in the Whitestone/Flushing/Auburndale sections of Queens have developed St. Louis Encephalitis (SLE), a serious illness which is transmitted by a mosquito called Culex Pipiens. In addition to the confirmed cases, DOH is investigating possible other cases primarily from this area of Queens. In response to this public health concern, the city of New York is spraying insecticide to eliminate mosquito breeding places in these areas. The New York City Dept. of Health advises residents in the Whitestone, Auburndale and flushing sections of Queens to take immediate precautions to prevent mosquito bites and to eliminate stagnant water around and near your home.
SLE is transmitted when an infected mosquito bites humans. It is not transmitted person-to-person, nor is it transmitted to or by pets. Infections vary widely in severity. Most people who are infected have no symptoms or may experience a fever and headache before fully recovering. In some individuals, particularly the elderly or infants, SLE can be a serious disease that affects the central nervous system. At its most serious, the disease can cause permanent neurological damage and it can be fatal. Symptoms generally occur five to 15 days following the bite of an infected mosquito and range from a slight fever or headache to rapid onset of severe headache, high fever, muscle aches, stiff neck, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, paralysis, or death.
To reduce mosquito contact, the Dept. of Health recommends:
• If you are outdoors during evening and night time hours when mosquitoes are most active, wear protective clothing such as long pants, long-sleeved shirts and socks.
• Use insect repellents with no more than 30 percent DEET, but use sparingly and with care. (Products containing 15 percent or less DEET are recommended for children but products containing DEET should not be used on infants. Carefully read and follow directions on the container and wash treated skin when mosquito exposure has ended).
• Avoid unnecessary outdoor activity during evening and night time hours.
• Empty water from outside objects such as bird baths and any containers in which water accumulates and where mosquitoes breed.
• Ensure that door and window screens are in good repair.
The New York City Dept. of Health, in collaboration with the Mayor’s Office of Emergency management, is spraying the affected neighborhoods in Queens with malathion — an insecticide.
• Malathion is one of the least toxic pesticides which is effective for killing adult mosquitoes.
• People and pets should stay indoors if possible.
• Some people may be sensitive to any pesticide whether applied by air or by ground crews. Avoiding exposure will lessen the risk of any reactions. Reactions might include eye irritation, rash, and respiratory problems.
• Close all doors and windows and keep them closed for two to three hours after spraying is completed.
• Turn fans and air conditioners off, or set the exhaust so air exits from the house.
• Remove children’s toys from outdoor areas and clothes from outdoor clothes lines. (If toys are left outside, wash thoroughly with soap and water before using again).
• Malathion breaks down in water and does not build up in the soil. It does not stay suspended in air.
• There is no need for spraying inside your home.
If you have questions about St. Louis Encephalitis, about how to prevent mosquito bites, or about the insecticide spraying, call the New York City Health Information Line at 1 (888) MOEM-NYC (1-888-663-6692).