New Bedford to Begin Summer Mosquito Spraying

NEW BEDFORD — New Bedford health officials have announced the summer mosquito ground spraying will start on June 15 and go through September.

The program also involves monitoring mosquito populations for mosquito-borne Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) or West Nile virus, both of which can be potentially deadly for humans.

Spraying will take place between 2 a.m. and sunrise, and will focus on the city's parks and event spaces.

The New Bedford Health Department works each summer in conjunction with the Bristol County Mosquito Control Project and the state's Department of Public Health to monitor and spray for mosquitoes.

According to a release from city officials, the first targeted ground spraying will take place early in the morning on Thursday, June 15.

Spraying will continue every Thursday until late September.

In case of rain, the spraying will take place on Friday instead.

Areas to be sprayed for mosquitoes include Buttonwood Park, Brooklawn Park, Fort Taber, Hazelwood Park, Riverside Park, Clasky Common, Ashley Park, and the Wing's Court/Custom House Square area.

Anyone who lives near these targeted areas may want to close their windows before spraying takes place.

Crews will also be placing traps to collect mosquitoes to monitor the population for EEE or West Nile virus over the course of the summer.

Residents are advised to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites, including reducing or rescheduling activity during peak biting times in the morning or evening.

Officials also advise residents to wear long sleeves, pants and socks when outdoors, and use mosquito repellent with DEET, permethrin, picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus, taking care to follow instructions.

Draining any standing water in or around your home and installing or repairing your screens can also help mosquito-proof your home, officials say.