Aerial Spraying to Fight West Nile Virus Begins in Calif.

My daughter, who lives north of Sacramento, California, the state capitol, reported that "in the Sacramento Valley, the number of cases of West Nile virus in humans is growing exponentially and percentages of trapped, infected mosquitoes have grown beyond epidemic proportions. The county is starting aerial spraying tonight and for the next three nights to try and kill off a generation of adult skeeters. So, for the next three nights when we've had 100+ degree days, we get to choose between keeping windows closed and air conditioning off or insecticide poisoning and breathing problems."---BBB

Aerial Spraying to Fight West Nile Virus Begins
Aerial spraying to fight the mosquitoes that carry West Nile virus began Monday night in parts of Sacramento County.

Mosquito control teams sprayed the pesticide pyrethrin over 70,000 acres north of the American River from Sacramento International Airport to just outside Folsom. The spraying is scheduled to continue on Tuesday night, from about 8:30 p.m. to midnight. Officials will evaluate if additional spraying is necessary on Wednesday and if areas south of the American River should be targeted.

This marks the first time in six years an urban area in California has been sprayed from the air to combat the virus. Sacramento County has the state's highest number of West Nile virus infections in the state with 24 human cases.

According to health officials, pyrethrin is a natural pesticide that is virtually harmless to humans and animals and will be applied in very small doses. Derived from the chrysanthemum plant, pyrethrin is widely used to control fleas, lice, and a variety of garden pests.

"In my line of business, human life is important and valuable," said Sacramento County Health Officer Dr. Glennah Trochet. "When the risk of exposure to this pesticide is so small compared to even one person dying. I have to say that I vote for the pesticide."

Despite the assurances of officials, some residents at a meeting Friday night expressed concerns about potential health risks. Officials said to minimize exposure, residents should stay indoors and close windows during the spraying. Pets should be brought inside. They also suggest turning off air conditioners during the evening spraying. Finally, outdoor furniture and children's toys should be hosed off after the spraying.

Several environmental groups sought a last-minute court order to halt the spraying, arguing that the Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito Vector Control District did not first obtain a permit to apply the pesticide.