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1. Why is spraying necessary and how are spray areas determined?

It is not possible to eliminate all breeding sites and prevent the natural migration of mosquitoes, therefore ultra-low volume (ULV) spraying is sometimes necessary to keep populations under control and prevent the potential diseases transmitted through mosquito bites.

Mosquito Control staff determine where to spray based on mosquito species and counts, and other data collected from mosquito light traps.

2. Is mosquito spray harmful to people or pets?

NHC Mosquito Control uses Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered Perm-X 4-4 for spraying. The pesticide passed rigorous safety tests and is not harmful to human health or the environment when used according to the label (PDF).

3. Where can I learn more about pesticides and their health effects?

Specific questions concerning pesticides can be directed to the EPA, the agency responsible for the registration of pesticides.

Additionally, the National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC) provides information about the impact of pesticide use on human health. The NPIC can also be reached at 800-858-7378.

Additional Information

Review of Central Life Sciences Mosquito Control Product Containers for Fluorination in PFAS Investigation, February 5, 2021 (PDF)

4. Which mosquito repellents work best?

The CDC recommends using repellants that contain active ingredients registered with the EPA. EPA registration means that the EPA does not expect the product to cause adverse effects to human health or the environment when used according to the label.

Of the products registered with the EPA, those containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol, and 2-undecanone products provide longer-lasting protection.

Products containing all-natural ingredients, such as peppermint, thyme, eucalyptus, and garlic, do not require EPA registration and have not been evaluated by the EPA for their effectiveness as mosquito repellents.

5. What can I do to prevent mosquitoes in my area?

Mosquitoes need water to complete their life cycle, so it is important to eliminate all sources of standing water including coolers, trash bins, toys, rain gutters and pipes, plant saucers, tarps, covered and uncovered boats, and bird baths. Any source of standing water, even as small as a bottle cap, can produce hundreds of mosquitoes.

Thinning shrubs and cutting down tall grass and weeds will also help reduce mosquitoes as they inhabit cool, shady areas to escape hot temperatures that can be deadly to mosquitoes.

• Asian Tiger Mosquito Brochure (PDF)
• Asian Tiger Mosquito Brochure en Español (PDF)