This content was originally published by the Longmont Observer and is licensed under a Creative Commons license.
Longmont’s mosquito control contractor, Vector Disease Control International, will begin adulticide fogging, weather permitting, in 10 Longmont areas on Thursday night, August 17, 2017.
Longmont fogging is triggered when West Nile Virus positive mosquitoes are discovered in Larimer, Boulder or Weld counties and when Longmont traps exceed 100 mosquitoes. These areas are scheduled for spraying this week:
- Jim Hamm Nature Area ((LK-03)
- Mountain View Cemetery (LM-09)
- Sandstone Ranch (LM-22)
- Union Reservoir (LM-23)
- Great Western (LM-27)
- Left Hand at Creekside (LM-31)
- Meadow View (LM-34)
- Stoney Ridge/Alpine Elementary (LM-41)
- Izaak Walton Park (LM-42)
- Reserve at Somerset Meadows (LM-44)
The City of Longmont has contracted with Vector Disease Control International (VDCI) to implement an "integrated pest management program" to combat mosquitoes that might carry the West Nile virus. This program focuses on first attacking mosquitoes in their larval stage before they become airborne. This is the best method since it eliminates mosquitoes before they hatch. This method also minimizes fogging to kill the adult, airborne bugs. However, some localized spraying becomes necessary when the West Nile mosquito population increases where habitat and weather conditions increase their likelihood. See weekly trap reports from Vector Disease Control International.
Longmont residents are encouraged to sign up for the City's e-Notification system to receive updates and notices about West Nile virus and any scheduled spraying in the city. By visiting Link2Longmont residents can enter their contact information and receive an email notice if and when spraying is scheduled.
The City has posted area maps on the West Nile information web page at LongmontColorado.gov/westnile that show the boundaries of 16 predetermined spray areas. When mosquito traps exceed the 100-count threshold and West Nile virus has been detected in the Longmont area, an alert will be sent to subscribers on Tuesdays, an ad is printed in the Times-Call, and notices are posted to the city's social media sites. Spraying typically occurs on Thursday nights giving residents 48 hours notice of spraying.
VDCI uses state-of-the-art technology, calibrated application timing, and least-toxic products to minimize non-target impacts. All adult mosquito control is accomplished using Ultra Low Volume (ULV) fogging equipment and is performed after dusk when the majority of mosquito species are most active.
West Nile virus is transmitted to humans from the bite of an infected female mosquito. While most infections are mild, the more serious infections can cause encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), meningitis (inflammation of the brain's lining), loss of vision, paralysis, coma, tremors, convulsions, and death.
Symptoms of West Nile virus include fever, extreme fatigue, headache, body aches, and occasionally can also include skin rashes and swollen lymph nodes. Generally, symptoms appear 3 to 14 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Anyone who experiences these symptoms should consult their health care providers.
There is no treatment, cure, or human vaccination for the virus. Health care providers can only treat the symptoms to help patients feel better and possibly recover more quickly.
Boulder County Public Health and Longmont officials urge residents to take necessary precautions to protect themselves. Keep safe this summer, and remember the 4Ds:
1.Use DEET-enhanced insect repellent or alternative.
2.DRESS in long sleeves and pants.
3.Avoid the outdoors from DUSK until DAWN.
4.DRAIN standing water outside your home.
Generally, the mosquito season extends from late April until mid-October, with the end usually signaled by the first freeze in the fall.
For more information about West Nile virus, mosquito activity in Boulder County, or proactive steps to take, visit www.bouldercounty.org/
