How safe are the pesticides being used?

The primary pesticides used in the larval control operations have very low human/mammalian toxicity and most are very environmentally friendly. Most are biological agents that have bacteria as the active ingredient and are very specific to mosquitoes while in the larval stage. Minnows are often used when feasible as a natural control. 

The pesticides used to control adult mosquitoes also have very low human/mammalian toxicity and have been used and tested for many years. Most are "synthetic pyrethroids" which are man-made to work like a natural product made from exotic chrysanthemum plants. Some are also natural pyrethrums and are actually made from plants. This is where some people may have an allergic reaction if they are allergic to these types of plants. These people may contact their local mosquito control district and ask to be placed on a "contact list" to be contacted when spray operations are planned, or call the spraying hotline to find out when spraying is scheduled and where. 

Even though these same pesticides are used in the agricultural market for pest control on plants, they are applied in the public health industry at a much lower application rate and are widely used in home pest control products. These products have very limited residual and biodegrade rapidly in the environment. They have very low human/mammalian toxicity. A good part of the odor and taste that might be experienced is from the mineral oil that is used as a diluent. There is currently much research and work being done with aqueous materials that can eliminate or at least greatly reduce the use of these oils.

Show All Answers

1. What if I don’t want my property treated or sprayed?
2. Are mosquitoes attracted to some people more than others?
3. What purposes do mosquitoes serve?
4. What diseases do mosquitoes carry?
5. Do mosquitoes carry AIDS?
6. Are the chemicals harmful to people or pets?
7. Will DEET hurt children?
8. What is the best personal repellent?
9. How can one type of insect be controlled without hurting other insects or wildlife?
10. What is the best way to control mosquitoes?
11. How effective is the spray?
12. Why can't mosquito control programs spray during the day?
13. How do districts decide where to spray?
14. How long does the mosquito spray last?
15. What does Mosquito Control do and why?
16. How safe are the pesticides being used?
17. When do you spray?
18. Is it true that only certain mosquitoes bite and/or transmit disease?
19. Can I as a homeowner make a difference in the mosquito population in my area?
20. Can I spray my yard myself?
21. Why is it so important that I inspect my yard when ditches and woodland surround me?
22. When are the Commission Meetings held?