DES MOINES, Iowa — Concerns about the West Nile Virus and, more recently, the Zika virus have forced some communities to be more proactive to control mosquito populations.
Spraying started today in Polk County, Iowa. The Public Works department says it's working with Iowa State researchers to track where the mosquitoes are breeding the most. They will also use new types of chemicals to prevent eggs from hatching.
"Well the main thing right now is the nuisance mosquitoes. That is why we are doing our helicopter drop today, so we can spread out larvacide out to the stagnant water areas and prevent the hatch of mosquitoes," said Dave Williams of Polk County Public Works.
The helicopter effort begins June 1 and fogging will continue throughout the week.