Portsmouth to spray for mosquitoes

PORTSMOUTH, R.I. (WPRI) -- Crews will spray for mosquitoes in the northern area of Portsmouth this week, the Department of Environmental Management announced Monday.

Spraying will take place Thursday from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. in the Island Park and Common Fence Point sections, according to the DEM.

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Residents in Island Park said Monday night the mosquitoes have been very bad, and many wish the spraying had been done sooner.

"It's about time," said Sharon Blewett. "Every time I go out into the yard I get attacked."

Blewett said the mosquitoes got so out of hand, she and her husband hired someone to spray their property.

"It doesn't matter what time of day it is, I get eaten alive," said Jessica Veeth. "Bug repellant doesn't even help."

Town officials are asking Island Park and Common Fence Point residents to close their windows and keep their cars parked off the streets Thursday night.

Residents can opt out if they do not want their property sprayed. DEM officials say the insecticide that will be used is designed to target mosquitoes, while having a minimal impact on the environment.

Mosquitoes trapped in Rhode Island this summer have tested positive for both West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), however there have been no human cases reported.