Gypsy moth spraying in Surrey and Delta sends man to hospital

A Surrey, B.C. man had to be rushed to hospital after inhaling insecticide spray targeting gypsy moths.

Mike Shilton is believed to have suffered a severe reaction to the spray, according to his brother-in-law.

"He immediately started coughing, wheezing," said Jeremy Whittingstall Wednesday. "He could barely breathe so he called 911."

Approximately 4,500 hectares in Surrey and Delta are currently being sprayed with insecticide intended to kill gypsy moths. The spraying started on April 15 and is scheduled to take place from 5:20 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. PT until Saturday. 

Spray contains a bacteria

The spray, called Foray 48B, contains a bacteria that kills gypsy moth caterpillars after they ingest it.

According to the B.C. Ministry of Health, the spray is not toxic to humans. 

"The actual ingredient, which is an organism that is present in soil naturally, and the other ingredients are not toxic to people," said B.C. Health Minister Terry Lake. 

Whittingstall said his brother-in-law walked out of his home when he heard helicopters buzzing overhead. 

"He didn't know. We've asked around, nobody knew it was happening," said Whittingstall. 

Other residents are also complaining that they weren't warned about the spraying. 

"Definitely they should have given us some kind of notice," said neighbourhood resident Angela Sawatsky, who has a baby and sleeps with her windows open.

"There was an extensive communication process with the advent of the program," said Steve Thomson, the province's Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations. 

Thomson said warnings included advertising in local newspapers. 

Gypsy moths are one of the most destructive pests of over 500 species of trees, shrubs and plants. 

Last summer, 200 gypsy moths were caught in traps set in trees in Surrey. This year because of the warmer-than-usual spring, caterpillars that feast on tree leaves are already emerging. 

Two more sprays will be scheduled before mid-May, according to the ministry of environment.

Residents concerned about the health effects of the spray can can contact HealthLink by dialing 811 or by calling the gypsy moth information line at1.866.917.5999