As summer approaches and the threat of mosquito-borne illnesses looms, the City of Dallas is gearing up to tackle the potential outbreak of West Nile virus.
City authorities have announced plans to conduct widespread mosquito spraying across various neighborhoods, with the goal of safeguarding public health, on Tuesday, June 20, and Wednesday, June 21.
City employees discovered several samples that tested positive for the West Nile virus.
The areas will be treated at night and early morning, according to a news release from the city.
The West Nile virus is transmitted primarily through mosquito bites and can cause severe symptoms and, in some cases, lead to life-threatening complications.
Recognizing the need for proactive measures, Dallas officials have scheduled comprehensive mosquito control efforts to minimize the risk of infection.
The mosquito spraying operation will cover targeted areas throughout the city. This proactive approach aims to reduce the mosquito population and prevent the spread of the virus by targeting breeding grounds and mosquito habitats.
“The area to be sprayed is within an area generally bounded by: 8500 block of San Benito Way (75218), Angora Street on the north, Breezewood Lane on the west, Old Gate Lane on the east, and Ferguson Road on the south,” the news release states.
While the Environmental Protection Agency has approved the use of insecticide for treatment, residents residing within the designated areas are advised to avoid contact with the spray by remaining indoors during the spraying period.
If individuals happen to be inside a vehicle when the trucks are actively spraying, they should keep their windows closed and the air conditioner on until the trucks have passed through and the spray is no longer visible.
It is important not to follow the spraying trucks.
In case of accidental exposure to the spray, residents should thoroughly wash the affected area with soap and water. The spray breaks down rapidly in sunlight and does not have a residual effect.
Dallas residents are strongly encouraged to take measures to protect themselves against mosquito bites, particularly during evening and nighttime hours.
This includes covering exposed skin with clothing and using mosquito repellent when outdoors.
Furthermore, residents are reminded to eliminate potential mosquito breeding grounds by removing standing water.
Common breeding sites include unclean swimming pools, stagnant ponds, pet water dishes, birdbaths, potted plants, old tires, empty containers, toys, and clogged rain gutters and French drains.
Prompt removal of standing water is crucial as mosquitoes can go from egg to adult in as little as seven days.
To support mosquito prevention efforts, Dallas residents can obtain free mosquito dunks at select Code Compliance Services District Offices.
Supplies are limited, and the locations where mosquito dunks are available include the following Code District Offices:
— 3112 Canton St. (Code Administration)
— 7901 Goforth Rd. (North Central, North East)
— 2721 Municipal St. (South East)
— 320 East Jefferson Blvd. (Central/South Central)
— 4230 W. Illinois Ave. (South West)
— 9803 Harry Hines Blvd. (North West)
To report standing water or mosquito problems, Dallas residents should call 3-1-1. To be added to the City of Dallas Do Not Spray list, contact 3-1-1. For additional information on mosquito control, visit www.dallascitynews.net/fightthebite.