In recent days, citizens have raised questions about the City’s mosquito control program and spray schedule. To address these inquiries, staff has compiled a list of frequently asked questions in relation to this topic:
Does Missouri City have a program to manage local mosquito populations?
Yes, the City has a strategic program in place that is targeted to work toward environmentally friendly control of adult mosquitoes and prevention of breeding sites. The current contractor is BUGCO and their agreement requires that four to five trucks spray every Thursday between the hours of 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. If there are adverse weather conditions, the contractor will spray on Friday evenings or the first available good weather evening afterward. This year, spraying will begin Thursday, April 22, and will continue until the first week of November.
What areas does spraying cover?
Spraying covers all streets and neighborhoods within City limits, including the private streets of communities that have provided a gate code for accessibility by the spraying contractor. Also, in addition to the contractor’s cycle, City staff sprays common areas where mosquitoes swarm, such as parks, green spaces, and the Quail Valley Golf Course.
What pesticide is used and what areas does spraying cover?
The contractor uses eco-friendly Kontrol 30-30, an industry standard insecticide which is also used by other regional cities.
When the mosquito population increases, how does the City respond?
Staff closely monitors this issue, and when necessary, additional spray days are added for communities and greenspaces citywide.
Do residents and stakeholders have any input on the frequency of the spraying, location of spraying, or the product(s) used for spraying?
Yes, residents who have questions or concerns about the mosquito control program and spray schedule, may contact the City directly at 281.403.8500 or click this link to Submit an Inquiry.
What are some preventative measures residents and visitors can take to “Fight the Bite”?
Preparedness is essential to prevention and staff encourages residents to prepare themselves by following the 4 D’s:
- DUSK/DAWN are the times of day you should try to stay indoors. This is when infected mosquitoes are most active;
- DRESS in long sleeves, pants, loose and light-colored clothing when outside. For extra protection, you may want to spray thin clothing with repellent;
- DEFEND yourself by using an insect repellent that contains DEET, Picaridin or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus. Follow label instructions and reapply as you would with sunscreen, after sweating and swimming; and
- DRAIN standing water in your backyard and neighborhood. Make sure that flower pots, water dishes, bird baths and wading pools are properly drained.
In the event you get a mosquito bite, experts recommend the first-aid procedures below:
- Wash the bite with soap and water
- Apply anti-itch cream or use calamine lotion or an oatmeal bath for itching
- Place an ice pack on the bite to reduce any swelling
- Seek medical attention immediately if you experience dizziness, swelling of lips and throat or difficulty breathing.
For more updates, please watch the City website: www.missouricitytx.gov, like us on Facebook—fb/MissouriCityTX, follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat—@MissouriCityTX and Nextdoor, watch Missouri City Television (Ch. 16 on Comcast and Ch. 99 on AT&T) or download the MCTX Mobile app (available for free in Google Play and the Apple app store).