How safe are the pesticides being used?
A. The primary pesticides used in the larval control operations have very low human/mammalian toxicity and most are very environmentally friendly. Most are toxins produced by bacteria and are very specific to mosquitoes while in the larval stage. The pesticides used to control the adult mosquitoes also have very low human/mammalian toxicity and have been used for many years. Most are “synthetic pyrethroids” which are man-made pesticides that mimic a natural product made from chrysanthemum plants.
A. 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 the adult mosquitoes also have very low human/mammalian toxicity and have been used and tested many years. Most are “synthetic pyrethroids” which is man made to work like a natural product made from exotic chrysanthemum plants. Some are also natural pyrethrums and actually made from the plants. This is where some people may have an allergic reaction if they are allergic to these type plants. These people may contact their local mosquito control district and ask to be place 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. Ev
