Reducing mosquito populations that can transmit West Nile Virus (WNV) is an important in component of the WNV program. Larviciding of City catch basins and stagnant water sites where immature mosquitoes (larvae) have been identified reduces the risk of WNV.
Larvicide is applied by licensed applicators and/or trained technicians that are approved by the Ontario Ministry of the Environment and under the authority of Toronto’s Medical Officer of Health.
The City of Toronto applies larvicide to catch basins that hold water and breed mosquitoes from June to the end of
August, however the exact start date will vary, depending on larvae mosquito surveillance results. The City also monitors stagnant water sites or artificial bodies of water such as storm water ponds to determine if treatment is necessary.
The City of Toronto will be using three different larvicides: methoprene, BS (Bacillus sphaericus) and Bti (Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis). Methorprene and BS will be used to treat catch basins. Bti will be used in other areas to reduce mosquito breeding.
Toronto’s mosquito control program aims at reducing the Culex mosquito population.
Culex mosquitoes are the most common carrier of West Nile Virus (WNV) in our region and although they prefer to bite birds, they will also bite humans. Surveillance activities in Toronto and elsewhere in North America have identified storm water catch basins as significant breeding sites for Culex mosquitoes, including some surface bodies of water.
Start Date: June 14, 2021
End Date: July 22, 2021
Start Date: July 15, 2021
End Date: To be determined