An increase in West Nile Virus mosquitoes have been found in Knoxville and surrounding areas, and health departments are taking proactive measures to reduce insect numbers by spraying insecticide along neighborhood streets.

Knox County Director of Environmental Health Ronnie Nease addressed some concerns about the spray used, and offered suggestions for residents looking to protect themselves further against the disease.

The spray, Nease said, is a manufactured pesticide called Biomist 30+30 with ingredients that are scientifically designed to target mosquitoes, specifically. Direct contact is the only way the pesticide has any affect. It is advised that people and pets still avoid contact with the spray by staying indoors during spraying.

The Knox County Health Department used traps set up around the region to select specimens to test for the virus. Studies have extended beyond the Knoxville area with traps in Kimberlin Heights.

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