NYC Health Department Rolls Out Overnight Mosquito Spraying Across Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens

The New York City Health Department is gearing up for another round of targeted mosquito control, and this time the trucks will be humming through the streets after dark. Residents of Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens can expect a quiet, overnight operation aimed at chopping down adult mosquito populations and, ultimately, the chance of West Nile virus spreading.

In Manhattan, the first sweep is slated for Monday, Sept. 21, kicking off at 11:30 p.m. and running until 6 a.m. the next morning. Should rain or a storm throw a wrench in the schedule, the department will simply shift the work to Tuesday, Sept. 22, keeping the same hours.

A second wave will hit parts of Brooklyn and Queens on Wednesday, Sept. 23, beginning at 8:30 p.m. and wrapping up at 6 a.m. Thursday. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, Thursday, Sept. 24 serves as the backup date.

The trucks will spray a product called Duet, which is EPA‑registered and designed specifically for mosquito control. The health agency assures the public that the pesticide poses a low risk to people and pets. Still, a few folks—especially those with sensitive eyes, throats or skin—might notice a brief irritation or a faint rash. If you have asthma or other respiratory concerns, you may prefer to stay indoors while the spray is in the air.

What can you do to protect yourself? The usual advice applies: use an EPA‑approved insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants when you’re outside after dusk, keep windows and doors fitted with tight screens, and get rid of any standing water around your home. Even a small bucket or a forgotten flower pot can become a breeding ground. If you spot a puddle or other stagnant water, dial 311 to report it.

Maps showing the exact treatment zones and more details are available on the health department’s website at nyc.gov/health/wnv. Keep an eye out for notices in your neighborhood, and feel free to share the news with friends and neighbors so everyone’s prepared.