NASSAU COUNTY, Fla. -- The battle of the bug is on in Nassau County! When Tropical Storm Debby blew through it left behind a mosquito population that's now gaining attention at the top.
"Mosquitoes are about that big near my house," Brian Vanliempd said.
Danny Hinson, Emergency Management Director for Nassau County, says the state is now getting involved, and beginning Wednesday night will do aerial sprays not only along the St. Mary's River and the Thomas Creek area as well.
The goal is to eliminate any chance of sickness or disease spread by the pests.
"The studies indicated that we do have some variant species that can carry the West Nike virus or EEE," he said.
The EOC has gotten several calls from concerned homeowners wondering if the spraying will be safe, and if it will affect pets and livestock. We asked that question and learned the chemical is EPA tested and approved and will dissolve into the ground once it falls.
"They told us that it's perfectly safe and dissipates before it hits the ground," Hinson continued.
Mosquito trappings indicate Nassau County will have a serious problem if it's not taken care of. It does not have aerial spray equipment, so the state's help is vital. Hinson believes this is the right way to go.
"This is what the County Health Department, Health Director, state health folks, the CDC, the Department of Agriculture have all all suggested. This is the only solution to the problem," he said.
A Disaster Recovery Center is now open in Nassau County for those affected by Tropical Storm Debby.
It's located inside the Emergency Operations Center on Citizens Circle in Yulee. It's open from 8 until 6 p.m., seven days a week.
For more information on getting help from FEMA, call 1-800-621-3362. The Small Business Administration will also be there to help with loans.
