Mosquito-Borne Disease Concern Sparks Spraying In Annapolis

ANNAPOLIS, MD — Health officials will spray for mosquitoes Wednesday evening in Annapolis "due to a public health concern over the potential for mosquito-borne diseases."

Mosquitoes are most prevalent in the summer. The Maryland Department of Agriculture expands mosquito control where the insects pose a health concern.

Wednesday's spraying comes in partnership with the Anne Arundel County Department of Health. It will be focused near the intersection of Chesapeake Harbour Road and Edgewood Road.

Spraying will start at 7:30 p.m. If it rains, spraying will happen on the next available evening.

The Maryland Department of Agriculture released this additional safety information:

MDA Mosquito Control Program personnel will use a permethrin-based solution that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has approved for use in public health mosquito control programs without posing unreasonable risks to human health. However, out of an abundance of caution, MDA recommends avoiding outdoor activities during spraying.

While not all mosquitoes carry diseases, MDA suggests that residents take precautions to minimize their exposure to mosquito bites. These measures include:

• Wear long, loose fitting, light colored clothing
• Wear insect repellents according to product labels
• Avoid mosquito infested areas during prime periods of activity (between dusk and dawn)
• Install, inspect, and repair window and door screens in homes and stables
• Regularly clean bird baths and bowls for pet food and water
• Remove or empty all water-holding containers

All Marylanders are encouraged to follow MDA’s X account @MdAgDept that will post unscheduled spray events and other timely information about mosquito control in Maryland. Routine spray program schedules are available by county on the program’s website.

For more information, please call MDA’s Mosquito Control Program at 410-841-5870.