Mosquito spraying begins in Sidney

Weekly mosquito spraying began in Sidney this week to combat the population of those pesky nuisances that are as much a part of summer as barbecues.

"Weather permitting, spraying will continue each Sunday evening from approximately 7:30-11 p.m. into September," a media release states.

Besides branding the arms and legs of anyone spending any time outside, mosquitos are capable of transmitting viruses.

"The city is spraying to kill adult mosquitos that may be carrying West Nile Virus," the release explains. "WNV poses a serious public health concern in our community since it can cause serious illness in people."

Anvil 2+2, a pesticide effective against mosquitos that carry West Nile Virus and registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, is dispersed in low volume from a truck. The liquid pesticide is converted into a very fine mist.

"Only 1.5 ounces of the pesticide product is needed to treat an area of land about the size of a football," the release states. "Under the most favorable conditions, mosquitos will be controlled up to 300 feet down wind."

The city's sprayer truck will travel on alternating streets each week – covering streets not sprayed one week the following week.

According to the city, Anvil 2+2 is one of the least toxic pesticides to humans. But if a resident wishes their property to not be sprayed, they may the Sidney City Hall and asked to be placed on a "no spray list."

"However, reducing mosquito populations will reduce the number of people that get sick or die from WNV," the release adds. "Anvil 2+2 breaks down rapidly in sunlight and water poses very minimal environmental concerns."

The ingredients in the pesticide are not corrosive and will not damage paint, according to the city.

"Spraying is just one of several ways the city is trying to protect people from WNV," the release states. "The city has eliminated many standing water problems and treated other areas with larvacide to kill mosquitos before they become adults."

For more information about mosquito control methods, residents can call city hall at (308) 254-5300.

Tips to avoid mosquito bites

• Avoid going outside during dawn and dusk. If you do go out, wear a long-sleeved shirt and pants.

• Use a mosquito repellant that contains DEET, and use it according to the label (not on infants under 2 months of age).

• Get rid of any standing water around your home.

• Clean clogged roof gutters.

• Turn over wheelbarrows and don’t let water stagnate in birdbaths.

• Turn over plastic wadding pools when not in use.

— Information from the City of Sidney and Nebraska DHHS