Health Department

Metro Public Health Department’s Mosquito Control Program
Trapping and Testing Mosquitoes
Asks for Community’s Help to Control Mosquitoes this Spring and Summer

NASHVILLE, Tenn., May 19, 2009 – The past few weeks of warm weather and heavy rain are reminders that spring has arrived, along with mosquito larvae and biting mosquitoes.

The Health Department’s Pest Management Staff is monitoring areas of standing water looking for mosquito larvae.  Staff applies a granular larvicide to kill larvae before they become biting mosquitoes.  Pest Management staff is trapping mosquitoes that are sent to the Tennessee Department of Health’s lab to be tested for disease such as West Nile virus.  None of the tests so far have detected WNV in the mosquito population.  The Health Department is not spraying at this time.

The Health Department encourages everyone to take important steps now and throughout the summer to help reduce the mosquito population by eliminating standing water where mosquitoes lay eggs. 

  • Clean rain gutters and downspouts.  Leaves and other debris can create pools of water ideal for mosquito breeding.
  • Empty standing water in flower pots, buckets, plastic covers, toys, or any other container that may collect water.
  • Empty and change the water in bird baths, fountains, wading pools, rain barrels, and potted plant trays at least once a week if not more often.
  • Cover outdoor trash and recycling cans with tight-fitting lids.
  • Keep swimming pools treated and circulating.
  • Make sure all windows and doors have screens and are in good repair.
  • Store wheelbarrows, canoes, and boats upside down. 
  • Eliminate any standing water in puddles surrounding leaking faucets and air conditioners.
  • Do not allow leaves or grass clippings to collect in drainage ditches or other low-lying areas.

Diseases such as West Nile Virus are spread to people from biting mosquitoes. The Health Department stresses taking measures to fully protect from mosquito bites, including:

  • Limit time outdoors when mosquitoes are present.
  • If you must be outdoors, use mosquito repellents and follow label directions and precautions closely.
  • Wear long sleeves and long pants when spending time outdoors.
  • Make sure window and door screens are "bug tight."
For updated information about the Metro Public Health Department’s mosquito control program call 340-5668, or log onto the health department’s web site at www.health.nashville.gov.