Dallas officials will begin spraying the city Thursday evening after two mosquito traps have tested positive for West Nile Virus, the latest in a string of positive tests across Texas this week.
City officials announced that, weather permitting, trucks will spray insecticide between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. from Thursday to Friday.
The affected spray zones include areas in North Dallas near Royal Lane and Preston Road, and another in the Red Bird neighborhood of South Dallas near Red Bird Lane and Love Freeway.
The city is also asking residents in the designated areas to remain indoors while the spraying is going on. Yet, officials did report that the insecticide being used is approved by the Environmental Protection Agency, breaks down quickly in sunlight, and allegedly poses no long-term exposure risks.
Dallas is not alone in their efforts to spray for mosquito control.
San Antonio’s Metro Health confirmed the city’s first positive mosquito trap of the season, collected from the North Side of the city. City officials in San Antonio said mosquito spraying began early Wednesday morning in response.
Williamson County, north of Austin, announced a positive trap near Devine Lake Park, also its first of the year. City leaders from Austin cited recent heavy rains followed by heat as prime conditions for mosquito breeding, and said spraying would begin this weekend in coordination with the City of Leander, per KXAN News.
Statewide, at least twelve human cases of West Nile Virus have been reported this year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. One human case was even confirmed in nearby Hays County on July 30.
West Nile Virus spreads mainly through mosquito bites, and while many people never show symptoms, it can lead to serious illness, especially in older adults or those with weakened immune systems. When symptoms do appear, they might include fever, headaches, muscle aches, and, in rare cases, more severe neurological issues.
Dallas residents can pick up free “mosquito dunks” at district Code Compliance offices while supplies last. These small, donut-shaped mosquito repellers are placed in standing water to kill larvae – without harming pets or nearby wildlife.
Additionally, anyone interested can call 3-1-1 to report mosquito issues or standing water, or to request inclusion on the city’s Do Not Spray list.