Mosquito spraying begins in Pittsfield

PITTSFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - A mosquito in Pittsfield has tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus. It's a rare but serious illness. It’s also the first time EEE has been confirmed in mosquitoes in Berkshire County.

Now, the city has started spraying to try and kill off some of the mosquito population. Pittsfield is using a truck to spray adulticide on some streets in the early morning and late at night.  They're also using larvacide in some breeding sites like standing water and sewers.

Some are welcoming the spraying because they think there’s been an increase in the bug population.

Lucas Willard of Pittsfield said, “I think it's mosquito season, I think we had a really warm winter so there are a lot of bugs out this year and I hope I don't get sick.”

But with the spraying of pesticides comes concerns with chemicals.

“I'm not concerned for myself I think I'm probably more concerned about women who have babies or young kids,” said Pittsfield resident Ronnie St. Marie.

Others like John Strine, however, would rather see the spraying than see more mosquitoes, “they used to do it where I lived down south they did the same thing.”

With the presence of disease, the city is urging residents to protect themselves.

• Use repellant
• Avoid peak mosquito hours
• Mosquito-proof your home
• Drain standing water
• Repair/install screens