The Lexington-Fayette County Health Department is modifying its mosquito eradication effort this summer. For the first time, residents of owner-occupied homes can pick up larvicide at the health department. The insecticide works to kills mosquito larvae before they grow into adults. Luke Mathias is environmental health and preparedness team leader at the health department. He said hopefully this will lessen the need to spray.
“The spraying, we kill any mosquitoes that night that are flying around, but the larvicide, that will actually, like these tablets right here, they should be effective for 60 days. So, it’s a more extended control,” said Mathias.
Mathias said it’s difficult to predict the summertime mosquito population size in the Lexington area. He noted trappings to gauge where the larger clusters of mosquitoes are forming will likely begin next week. Mathias added there will still be some targeted spraying.
Mosquitoes are known to be carriers of various ailments including West Nile and Encephalitis.
