Control and prevention of mosquitoes has recently become a challenge in urban municipal management. Whereas various methods are available for control of the dangerous insect, misting systems consisting of a chain of tubes attached with nozzles is nowadays becoming popular. These are popularly known as Mosquito Misting Systems.

A mosquito misting system essential involves a reservoir for storing the insecticide and is fitted with a suitable pumping device. The pump is operated with an electrically or battery operated motor which transmits the fluid to nozzles meant for dispersal. The amount of fluid to be dispersed is controlled by a control unit. More complex models come with various pressure gauges and leakage detecting devices etc.

The system releases extremely fine droplets (less than 50 microns in diameter) in the air, which remain suspended for some time. When a mosquito or any other insect comes into its contact, it is killed instantly.

However, according to some experts, this system is not completely safe for the human being. Some of the insecticides used in such systems (like pyrethrum) are potentially hazardous for human health and are often thought to be responsible for problems like asthma and bronchitis. Some experts suggest that children, old people and pets should not be allowed to enter areas for at least 20 to 30 minutes after the misting system has run.

Questions are also raised about the bad impact of such mister system on organisms other than the mosquitoes. Since the impact of such misting prevails over a large area, there is a possibility of damage to other animals /insects/birds/fish etc.

In spite of these fears, more and more people have now started adopting these misting systems in their backyards and fields. The fact is that those who are not using such systems are also most likely to feel their impact.