Lambton Public Health (LPH) is starting its mosquito control program this week to reduce West Nile virus (WNV) in Lambton County.
Pestalto Environmental Health Services Inc. will handle mosquito larva control by using larvicide in catch basins. The larvicide, Methoprene (Altosid), will be used in pellet and granule forms. Pestalto technicians wearing safety vests will apply it by hand to roadside catch basins.
They will use motorized scooters with “Slow-Moving Vehicle” signs and an MECP 2024 Applicator sticker, or passenger vehicles with the same signs, a flashing beacon, and Pestalto insignia.
Larviciding helps prevent mosquitoes from breeding and reduces adult mosquito populations. Lambton Public Health also advises residents to:
Remove stagnant water around your property
Keep eaves clear of debris
Drain water from containers or toys
Use insect repellent with DEET or Icaridin when outside during peak mosquito hours (dawn and dusk)
West Nile Virus Surveillance
Mosquito trap surveillance and testing will start in early July. Any positive findings will be reported, and monitoring of human cases will continue.
Please note, there is no collection of dead birds for West Nile virus surveillance. If you find a dead bird on your property, dispose of it safely by using gloves or a bag to pick it up and placing it in your regular garbage.
For more information about WNV or dead bird disposal, call the West Nile virus Information Line at 519-383-3824, toll-free 1-800-667-1839 ext. 3824, or visit LambtonPublicHealth.ca.
Writtenn by: K. Milhomens
