Since the aftermath of Hurricane Florence, the Environmental Health Division of the Pitt County Health Department has been working within the unincorporated areas of Pitt County to control the increased mosquito population. Recent spraying in these areas has reduced the number of nuisance mosquitos; however, due to the imminent threat from Hurricane Michael, wind and rainfall will force staff to cease spraying during this time.
“Once weather conditions improve, spraying will resume but community members can play a huge role in helping to control the mosquito population,” said Jim Gardner, Vector Control Manager. “Tip and Toss” measures are strongly recommended to prevent the breeding of mosquitoes. Such measures include:
- Eliminating standing water in and around homes
- Regularly emptying items that hold water (such as tires, buckets, planters, toys, pools, birdbaths, flowerpots, clogged rain gutters or trash containers)
- Tightly covering water storage containers (buckets or rain barrels) so that mosquitoes cannot get inside to lay eggs.
Septic tanks that contain cracks or gaps should be repaired and open vents or plumbing pipes should be covered with wire mesh that has holes smaller than an adult mosquito. Mosquitoes should be kept out of homes by using screens on windows and doors, repairing holes in screens and using air conditioning when possible.
Larvacide tables can also be used to kill mosquitos in standing water. Pitt County Health Department’s Environmental Health Division has a limited supply of these tablets and will provide ONE (1) packet of tablets per household, as long as supplies last. Anyone interested in receiving one of these free packets can visit Environmental Health at 1825 Hospital Drive in Greenville between the hours of 8:00am – 5: 00pm, Monday – Friday. Individuals who reside in Ayden or Grifton, can obtain 1 free packet at the Town of Ayden Public Works Department and the Grifton Town Hall. Larvacide tablets can also be purchased at local home improvement stores.