Where It Comes From
Public health aerial/truck ultra-low volume (ULV) spraying and some agricultural uses; degrades quickly in sun and water, often to dichlorvos [1][2][3].
How You Are Exposed
Breathing spray drift during or shortly after applications; skin contact with treated surfaces; residues on produce; drinking water exposure is unlikely due to rapid breakdown [1][2][3].
Why It Matters
Short-term exposure can cause headache, nausea, dizziness; higher doses can cause breathing problems and seizures via cholinesterase inhibition; highly toxic to bees and aquatic life; breakdown product dichlorvos is reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen [1][2][4].
Who Is at Risk
Pesticide applicators and mixers/loaders; people in areas during or right after spraying; infants and young children; people with conditions or medicines affecting cholinesterase [1][2].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Check local spray notices; during spraying stay indoors, close windows, bring pets/toys inside, and wait ~30 minutes before going out; wash skin/items if contacted; rinse/peel produce; workers use label-required PPE and cholinesterase monitoring [2][3].
References
- [1]ATSDR. ToxFAQs for Naled. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.
- [2]EPA. Naled Interim Registration Review Decision (2020). U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
- [3]CDC. About Naled Insecticide and Aerial Spraying for Mosquito Control. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
- [4]NTP. Report on Carcinogens: Dichlorvos (DDVP). National Toxicology Program.