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Kristin Murphy, Deseret News
Some physicians want all mosquito spraying stopped in Utah, claiming alleged harm to residents, but state officials reaffirm their methods of application are safe.
Members of Utah Physicians for a Healthy Environment spoke out this week about dangers insecticides used against adult mosquitoes pose to Utahns’ health, publishing a report that lists the downsides of being downwind from mosquito-spraying areas.
The activists listed three major concerns:
Neurological problems, including autism, in adults, children and developing fetuses.
Decreased fertility in men and women.
Utah’s overall air quality.
However, the Salt Lake County Mosquito Abatement District countered that efforts to control mosquito populations protect Utahns from illnesses such as West Nile virus.
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SALT LAKE CITY The Salt Lake County Health Department said it s been difficult to get as many people vaccinated on the west side of Salt Lake City as in other parts of town.
About twice as many shots have been given in areas like the Avenues and East Bench compared to the Rose Park and Glendale communities.
Several groups have tried to step in and help but there are multiple challenges standing in the way.
While a lot of people might feel motivated to get to a vaccine site, that drive and confidence in the vaccine aren t the same for everyone.