In an effort to tackle the heightened risk of mosquito-borne diseases, the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) is joining forces with the Anne Arundel County Health Department to conduct unscheduled mosquito control activities in certain areas. Crofton residents near Riedel Road and Tilghman Drive should expect truck-based spraying tomorrow night, after 7:30 p.m., weather permitting. This step comes after concerns over diseases such as West Nile virus and Zika, which can be spread by mosquitoes.
The operation will involve Ultra-Low Volume (ULV) spraying aimed at adult mosquitoes, with a permethrin-based solution approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Notably, the spraying will only occur if weather conditions allow, with a backup plan to reschedule for the next available evening should Mother Nature not cooperate. To minimize risks, exemptions to spraying will be temporarily inactive during the procedure.
While permethrin is considered safe for public health efforts, the MDA suggests that precautions should still be taken. Residents are advised to stay indoors during the spraying and to wear protective clothing and repellents as secondary measures. The MDA also emphasizes the importance of household mosquito-proofing actions, such as repairing screens, managing water containers, and regular maintenance of water features.
More in-depth resources, including routine spraying schedules, can be found on the MDA’s Mosquito Control Program website. For questions or for more detailed information, residents can contact the MDA’s Mosquito Control Program directly at 410-841-5870.
