Mosquito spraying planned in Monterey Park, Bassett neighborhoods

MONTEREY PARK — Hoping to counter an increase in the mosquito population that could raise the risk of illnesses such as West Nile virus, pesticide spraying will be conducted in select areas of Monterey Park and Bassett.

According to the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District, spraying will be conducted from a truck moving through the impacted areas, targeting “flying adult mosquitoes that may be infected with West Nile virus.”

The spraying will done between midnight and 5 a.m. on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings.

In Monterey Park, the spraying will be done in an area between West Floral Drive and the Pomona (60) Freeway, east of Vancouver Avenue and west of Collegian Avenue.

In Bassett, the spraying will be in the area between Puente and Vineland avenues, southwest of Amar Road and northeast of Valley Boulevard.

“The district has recorded high mosquito abundance numbers the past few weeks,” SGVMVCD Director of Scientific Program Tristan Hallum said in a statement. “This treatment will help decrease mosquito populations, interrupt virus transmission, and protect residents from mosquito-borne diseases.”

District officials noted that the pesticide Aquaduet is mixed with water, and it will not harm finishes on cars or homes. The chemical is designed to attract the mosquitoes by mimicking the properties of chrysanthemum flowers.

More information about the operation is available online at www.sgvmosquito.org.

District officials said residents can help reduce mosquito populations by eliminating standing water, ensuring swimming pools and spas are properly maintained, changing the water in pet dishes and bird baths regularly, and reporting neglected swimming pools.