Mosquitoes south of Zollinger Road have tested positive for West Nile Virus, and Franklin County Public Health will spray the entire southern half of Upper Arlington starting at 9 p.m. Aug. 10, weather permitting.
The city posted the notice Aug. 6, giving residents four days to prepare. The spraying covers all UA neighborhoods south of Zollinger Road, which runs east-west through the city.
Upper Arlington contracts with Franklin County Public Health for its mosquito management program. The agency uses gravid traps baited with stagnant water to attract egg-laying Culex mosquitoes, the primary carriers of West Nile Virus. When trapped mosquitoes test positive, spraying is triggered.
What residents should do before 9 p.m. Monday
Franklin County Public Health says staying indoors during spraying is not necessary but is an option for those who prefer to limit exposure. The agency advises residents to:
- Bring pet food and water bowls inside
- Cover ornamental fishponds
- Take laundry off outdoor lines
- Cover or later rinse outdoor furniture, toys and play equipment (the pesticide degrades with exposure to air and light, so rinsing is not required)
- Wash any exposed garden fruits or vegetables under running water before eating
Pets left outside will be safe, according to FCPH's spray guidance.
If you encounter a spray truck while walking, make yourself visible to the driver and walk in the direction the truck is heading. Drivers are trained to shut off the spray. Do not follow a spray truck in your vehicle while it is operating.
Opting out and staying informed
Residents who do not want their property sprayed can submit a "Do Not Spray" request at mosquito.myfcph.org. The agency also offers email spray notifications through the same site.
FCPH posts spray schedules and maps at least 24 hours before application. If weather forces a cancellation Monday, residents should check mosquito.myfcph.org for updates.
No alternate date has been announced.
Franklin County Public Health can be reached at (614) 525-3160 or [email protected].
