HomeTamarac NewsLarvicide spraying scheduled in Hollywood to prevent spread of mosquito-borne diseases

Larvicide spraying scheduled in Hollywood to prevent spread of mosquito-borne diseases

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Hollywood, Florida – Hollywood residents can expect to see truck-mounted sprayers in action as the Mosquito Control Section carries out a scheduled larvicide application to combat the growing mosquito population.

This initiative, aimed at the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, known carriers of dengue, yellow fever, and chikungunya, will occur from April 23 to April 27, 2024, between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., weather permitting.

The spraying will focus on specific areas prone to mosquito breeding, as detailed in the provided map. This preventative measure is crucial for controlling the early-stage development of mosquitoes in their most common breeding grounds, such as water-holding plants and outdoor containers commonly found in local landscaping.

Safe and Effective Larvicide Use

The larvicide, VectoBac WDG, contains Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti), a naturally occurring bacterium that targets mosquito larvae. Bti is harmless to humans, pets, bees, and aquatic ecosystems, making it an environmentally friendly option for mosquito control. VectoBac WDG is approved by the Organic Materials Review Institute and registered with the US Environmental Protection Agency. Its efficacy and safety have also been affirmed by the World Health Organization, which lists it as a preferred method for the control of mosquito larvae.

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Local Efforts and Community Participation

Broward County’s Mosquito Control Section is coordinating closely with the Florida Department of Health and local code enforcement to mitigate mosquito populations across Hollywood and surrounding municipalities. By reducing mosquito breeding sites, they aim to decrease the likelihood of disease transmission by adult mosquitoes.

Residents are urged to assist in these efforts by inspecting their properties for potential mosquito breeding sites and eliminating any standing water from objects like buckets, planters, and birdbaths. Such proactive community involvement is vital in sustaining the effectiveness of the mosquito control measures.

For additional assistance or to report mosquito problems, residents can contact the Mosquito Control Section via a dedicated hotline at 311 or through an online Mosquito Service Request Form.

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