Fogging planned on base Sept. 12

  • Published
  • By 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs

HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- Due to the current Eastern Equine Encephalitis, or EEE, concerns and the confirmed presence of EEE in mosquitoes in some neighboring towns, in addition to other base precautions previously announced, Civil Engineering will be fogging on the main base, to include housing, as well as the FamCamp, on Sep. 12, beginning at 8 p.m. The fogging is anticipated to take approximately two hours. There should be no significant risk to personnel due to the types and quantities of insecticides being used.

On Sep 13, fogging will be done at the Patriot Golf Course, beginning at approximately 7:30 p.m. and ending at 9 p.m.

Here are a few basic FAQ's about ground fogging and what we'll be applying:

What type of insecticide is used by Hanscom pest control personnel?

The main material will be utilized; pyrethrin, a natural botanical derivative, is one of the active ingredients used to suppress flying adult mosquitoes and new, EPA "reduced risk" product called Zenivex (active ingredient: etofenprox), a lower toxicity pyrethroid.

How will this insecticide affect me and my family?

At the rates that fogging products are applied at Hanscom AFB, only 3/4 to one fluid ounce per acre, there should be no significant risk to you or your family. Generally, there is no need to relocate during mosquito control fogging. Pyrethrins are used at much higher rates to treat head lice on children. Individuals having chemical sensitivities may want to consult their physician or local health provider for advice. If fogging occurs in and around housing, closing doors and windows is not required and is solely the home occupant's choice.

Will this product affect pets?

Pyrethrin is commonly used to treat dogs and cats for fleas and ticks and has a history of safety when applied according to the label. This product is toxic to fish, however at the low rates at which it is applied and the fact that it is not applied directly to water provides a significant margin of safety to fish. Due to a slightly different mode of action, Zenivex hasa much lower toxicity to mammals and is also low toxicity to birds.

Will mosquito fogging affect lawn furniture, garden plants, play equipment, children's toys, etc..?

Fogging applications are made in the late evening hours. The material used breaks down rapidly in sunlight the next day. Washing down lawn furniture, children's play equipment and toys, fruits etc. with water after fogging applications certainly cannot hurt. This product does not cause any damage to car surfaces.