JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va. –
Joint Base Langley-Eustis Pest Management will conduct mosquito control operations across portions of the installation after West Nile virus was detected in a sample of trapped mosquitoes collected on Langley Air Force Base. The treatment, originally scheduled for August, has been moved forward to help reduce mosquito populations and minimize the potential spread of mosquito-borne diseases. The detection was made from a single sample of trapped mosquitoes, not from an individual mosquito, as previously stated.
Ground-based fogging operations on Langley will begin at 7 p.m. July 29 in the Heavier Than Air and Lighter Than Air on-base housing areas and continue until all designated treatment areas have been completed. Operations will focus on housing neighborhoods and industrial areas where mosquito activity has been highest.
Residents may notice a truck-mounted fogging vehicle operating after sunset, when mosquitoes are most active and impacts to beneficial insects are minimized.
The pesticide being used is approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Commonwealth of Virginia. While it is considered safe for people and pets when used as directed, residents with respiratory conditions or pesticide sensitivities are encouraged to remain indoors while fogging is taking place. As an added precaution, young children should also remain indoors during treatment because they may be more susceptible to temporary irritation.
The pesticide does not leave harmful residue. Outdoor activities may resume approximately 10 to 15 minutes after the fog has dissipated.
The Bethel Manor housing area will be treated as previously scheduled in early August.
Although no virus has been detected on Fort Eustis, as part of routine fogging Environmental Flight Pest Management personnel will continue routine mosquito, blackfly and biting midge control starting July 30 to Sept. 1, weather permitting. Truck-mounted fogging and larvicide applications are scheduled on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-11 p.m., beginning along Mulberry Island Road and progressing through the southern portion of the installation before concluding near the cantonment area.
Previously scheduled aerial mosquito control operations across Langley will continue Aug. 4.
Pest Management uses an integrated pest management approach that emphasizes monitoring, habitat management and targeted control measures. Pesticide applications are used only when necessary to protect public health. An independent environmental assessment has determined that aerial pesticide applications pose minimal environmental risk when conducted as approved.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, West Nile virus is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most people infected do not develop symptoms, but reducing mosquito exposure remains the best way to lower the risk of infection. Residents can help protect themselves by:
Using EPA-registered insect repellent.
Wearing long sleeves and long pants when outdoors.
Limiting outdoor activity during dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.
Keeping mosquitoes out of homes by using window and door screens or air conditioning when available.