Mosquito Spraying Planned for the Longfellow Area

The Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) would like to advise residents and community members in Roslindale and West Roxbury of upcoming sprayings to help control the mosquito population in selected areas.

In West Roxbury, spraying is planned for neighborhoods in the vicinity of VFW Parkway that are located between Baker Street and Russett Road including streets near Vermont Street, Montview Street and Shermer Road.  In Roslindale, spraying is planned for streets in the vicinity of Walter Street that are located between Hewlett Street and Weld Street. The Suffolk County Mosquito Control Project will use truck mounted aerosol sprayers application to complete the work on Tuesday, June 17th between dusk and 11:30 PM. If spraying is postponed, it will be conducted on Thursday, June 19th.

The spray formulation utilizes the pesticide sumithrin to control the mosquito population. Mosquito control applications of sumithrin do not pose a significant risk to people or pets due to the chemical’s low toxicity and small amount used in spraying. As with any pesticide, people are advised to minimize their exposure to the chemical. If people see a spray truck approaching, they should go indoors for a few minutes while the spray dissipates. Residents are also advised to close any windows that face the street during the scheduled spraying hours.

While the pesticide poses little risk to people, BPHC and the Suffolk County Mosquito Control Project attempt to minimize the amount of aerosolized spraying that is done in the City of Boston. Other methods of mosquito control, such as applying larvicides to catch basins and wetlands around the city, are a priority.

To help prevent mosquitoes from breeding, BPHC advises residents to limit places around the home where standing water can collect. People should turn over unused flower pots, buckets, wheelbarrows, and garbage cans; remove leaves and other debris that can clog gutters and trap water; dispose of or cover old tires; and cover swimming pools when not in use.

Community members that have questions about the sprayings can contact the Suffolk County Mosquito Control Project at 781-899-5730. BPHC and the Suffolk County Mosquito Control Project ask that neighbors reminder those without access to email of tomorrow’s planned sprayings.

For more information on mosquito-borne illness, call the Boston Public Health Commission at 617-534-5611 or visit www.bphc.org/mbi.