The NYC Department of Health announced it would spray pesticide areas of Corona, Forest Hills and Rego Park to kill mosquitoes that may carry the West Nile virus.
Spraying is scheduled to take place between 8:15 p.m. Tuesday night, Aug. 19, and 6 a.m. the following morning. In the event of inclement weather, the spraying will take place at the same time the next day, Wednesday, Aug. 20.
The spraying area—which also includes sections of Flushing and Kew Gardens Hills—is generally bounded by the Long Island Expressway, College Point Boulevard and Booth Memorial Avenue on the north; Main Street on the East; the Jackie Robinson and Grand Central parkways on the south; and 99th Street, 67th Avenue and Austin Street on the west.
The Health Department advises residents in this area to take the following measures:
• Whenever possible, stay indoors during spraying. People with asthma or other respiratory conditions are encouraged to stay inside during spraying since direct exposure could worsen these conditions.
• Air conditioners may remain on, however, if you wish to reduce the possibility of indoor exposure to pesticides, set the air conditioner vent to the closed position, or choose the re-circulate function.
• Remove children’s toys, outdoor equipment, and clothes from outdoor areas during spraying. If outdoor equipment and toys are exposed to pesticides, wash them with soap and water before using again.
• Wash skin and clothing exposed to pesticides with soap and water. Always wash your produce thoroughly with water before cooking or eating.
For more information, call 311 or visit www.nyc.gov/health.
