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Mosquito & Rodent Control
Vector control prevents diseases carried by host organisms. The Fishers Health Department vector control program focuses on mosquito and rodent control. Rabies is monitored via the county animal control ordinance and animal bite reporting, which is tracked and monitored by the Fishers Health Department.
Mosquito Control
The Fishers Health Department's mosquito control program employs a phased response to mosquito control efforts. Our approach monitors for the presence of West Nile Virus and other vector-borne diseases by taking samples from a variety of locations around the city, which we send to Indiana Department of Health laboratory for analysis. Once the lab has reported a positive sample, we expand our program to monitoring public areas for standing water. If standing water sources are located, we apply an advanced biological mosquito larvicide called VectoMax FG and will issue advisories to the public. VectoMax FG was selected because it is applied as dust-free granules, is highly effective at killing mosquito larvae, and is not harmful to non-target organisms. At this time, we do not utilize any sprays in our mosquito prevention approach. Although many mosquito control program utilize sprays for adulticide, they may trigger asthma attacks in vulnerable individuals. The Board of Health has elected to not utilize spraying as part of our control measures at this time.
West Nile Virus is typically active in Fishers in the late summer and early fall, when the weather is more dry. Most mosquitoes are nuisance mosquitoes that do not spread germs or make people sick. These types of mosquitoes are typically a problem following heavy rains. Although annoying, these mosquitoes do not typically spread disease and are therefore not a public health concern. More information on mosquitoes is available via the CDC.
Preventing Mosquito Bites
The best way to prevent West Nile virus is to avoid mosquito bites. You can do this by:
- Using insect repellents when you go outdoors.
- Wearing long sleeves and pants at dawn and dusk.
- Repairing or installing screens on windows and doors.
- Using air conditioning during times of peak mosquito activity.
- Removing mosquito breeding sources from around your home, such as trash, old tires, or other areas that collect small amounts of water.
The CDC has comprehensive information on preventing mosquito bites if you need more detailed information.
Rodent Control
The Fishers Health Department responds to rodent-based complaints in public properties or those that could affect the public. Once a complaint is submitted, we will conduct an inspection and assess the need for further action. We do not perform routine pest management for private residents.
Information concerning rodent prevention is provided upon request.
File a Complaint
Residents and businesses can submit a complaint to the Fishers Health Department.