MANHATTAN, NY — Though summer is winding down, it is still mosquito season in New York City, and parts of Manhattan are getting sprayed with pesticides to reduce mosquito activity and West Nile virus, officials said Thursday.
According to the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Manhattan will be sprayed with low concentrations of various pesticides called Anvil, Duet, and MERUS 3 on Tuesday, Aug. 26.
The treatment, which will start after midnight Tuesday and last until 6 a.m., weather permitting, will cover parts of Harlem, East Harlem, Midtown, Morningside Heights, Upper East Side, Upper West Side, and Washington Heights. The department is using trucks to spray the chemicals.
According to NYC data, 810 standing water puddles have tested positive for mosquitos carrying West Nile virus, including 30 in Manhattan in 2025.
The health department says that the risks of pesticides applied by the Health Department for mosquito control are low to people and pets, but that some people who are sensitive to spray ingredients may experience short-term eye or throat irritation, or a rash.
The health department also said people with respiratory conditions may also be affected.
During the spray time, health officials said it’s important to stay inside whenever possible. Air conditioners can remain on overnight, officials said.
If you are exposed to the pesticides, you can wash your skin and clothing with soap and water, as well as all fruits and vegetables, should you be making a middle-of-the-night grocery run.
If it rains on Tuesday morning, then the spraying will be delayed until the next morning.
For questions and tips, email Miranda.Levingston@Patch.com.