It was announced Thursday, Sept 30, that, after consultation with the New York State Health Department, aerial spraying in Nassau County to kill mosquitoes which may be carrying the West Nile encephalitis disease will commence at 11 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 2, weather permitting.

According to County Executive Thomas Gulotta, the county will be using Anvil, an organic, botanically related substance for all aerial spraying rather than Malathion, a neuro-toxin. The spraying will be performed over a three-evening period, weather permitting, working from the north shore to the south shore.

The decision to commence aerial spraying follows after blood samples taken from seven live birds, both geese and pigeons, six from Valley Stream and one from Elmont, indicated that they had been exposed to the West Nile virus. In addition, the test results on the analysis of 10 dead crows found throughout the county made available to the county yesterday demonstrated they had contracted the West Nile type encephalitis virus. These dead crows were found in Kings Point (3), Sea Cliff (2), Jericho (2), Locust Valley (1), West Hempstead (1) and Garden City (1).

Previously, the county has utilized ground spraying with the substance Scourge to combat mosquitoes in specific areas, including Bayville and Centre Island. However, the wide number of communities impacted by recent test results clearly indicates the need to spray a broader geographic spectrum. The only realistic means to achieve that objective is the aerial spraying of Anvil, an organic botanical substance.

"The health and safety of all our residents is paramount," County Executive Gulotta said. "The recent results of these tests clearly indicated that a pre-emptive strike utilizing Anvil, an organic, botanical-like substance to kill the carrier mosquito is warranted and is the most prudent course of action." He further stated the county is undertaking a major notification campaign to alert citizens of the county's actions.

October 2, Saturday Evening 11 p.m.- From Long Island Sound to Long Island Expressway

October 3, Sunday Evening 11 p.m.- From the Long Island Expressway to Hempstead Turnpike.

October 4, Monday Evening 11 p.m.- From Hempstead Turnpike to the south shore barrier beaches.

"Nassau County has an effective preventive insect management program that has proven effective throughout the summer," Gulotta said. "However, in view of the current situation, and after several discussions with the State and Nassau Health Departments on Wednesday, an aerial spraying program using an organic substance, covering a broader geographic area, is the most prudent way to address this potential health hazard and ensure the safety of our residents."

A release from the county stated Anvil is "extremely safe, but there may be some sensitivity by those who are subject to allergies, hay fever and asthma since it is similar to a substance found in the chrysanthemum flower." It does not present any serious health problems, even in children, pregnant women or pets.

As an added precaution the county is advising that people and pets stay indoors during the actual spraying. Also all windows to your home should be closed and all air-conditioning units turned off for up to three hours after spraying.

Children's toys, pet food dishes and clothes should be removed from outdoors. Playground equipment and larger toys may be washed off with soap and water, then rinsed or hosed off. Sand boxes should be covered during spraying.

When the spraying is taking place there will be a mild odor and a mist or fog will be present. This should dissipate shortly after spraying has been completed because the insecticide breaks down very quickly.

If you are directly exposed to the insecticide wash your skin with soap and water. If there is eye irritation, flush your eyes with water. If symptoms persist call a physician.

Citizens seeking additional information may contact the Nassau County Health Department at 571-8707, or the State Health Department Hotline at 1-888-697-4234.