The Bucks County Department of Health (BCDH) has announced a targeted attack on disease-harboring mosquitoes in Bristol Township, with a pesticide spray scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 21. The control operation, part of the West Nile Virus Mosquito Control Program, sprang from the need to address a surge in nuisance mosquito populations as well as those capable of transmitting the West Nile Virus.
The approach, which employs truck-mounted equipment to disperse the pesticide Duet at a measure of 0.75 ounces per acre, is set to voyage through select residential and park areas. These trucks, easily recognizable by the Bucks County seal on the doors, will be treating the air in surroundings bounded by several local avenues and streets - from Broadway Ave. to Dolphin Ave. as detailed by the Bucks County announcement. The operation will take place between 7:30 PM and 11:00 PM, weather permitting.
Because of the potential health risks associated with the West Nile Virus, authorities have taken this measure to safeguard residents. The virus, which can cause encephalitis or inflammation of the brain, is a serious consideration for the community's well-being. The Pennsylvania Department of Health cautions that anyone in regions where the virus has been reported could be at risk.
Mosquito control measures such as these are part of a broader public health strategy to mitigate the impacts of vector-borne diseases. While the spray's application consists a very low toxicity profile to mammals and is expected to have minimal effects on non-target insects and the environment, the BCDH ensures precautionary steps are in place. Should unexpected weather conditions emerge on Aug. 21, the operation will be pushed to the following evening, Thursday, Aug. 22.
