The City of Dallas announced on May 15 that mosquito control spraying will take place in a designated area after local mosquito samples tested positive for the West Nile Virus. Weather permitting, the spraying is scheduled between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. from Saturday, May 16 to Sunday, May 17.
The city said the targeted area includes the 10700 block of Ruth Ann Drive (75228) in Council District 9, bounded by Ferguson Road on the north, Joaquin Drive on the west, Barnes Bridge Road on the east, and Santa Teresa Avenue on the south.
Residents are advised to avoid contact with insecticide spray by staying indoors during these hours. The Environmental Protection Agency has approved this insecticide for treatment. Those inside vehicles while trucks are actively spraying should keep windows up and air conditioning running until trucks pass through and spray is no longer visible. People outdoors during spraying should be alert for trucks and not follow them. Anyone who comes into contact with spray is advised to wash thoroughly with soap and water. According to city officials, “the spray breaks down quickly in sunlight and has no residual effect.”
To reduce risk of mosquito bites, residents are urged to limit outdoor activity during evening and nighttime hours when mosquitoes are most active. Covering arms and legs as well as using mosquito repellent is recommended.
The city also encourages residents to eliminate standing water around their homes—such as in swimming pools that are not kept clean, stagnant ponds, pet dishes, birdbaths, potted plants, old tires or containers—to prevent mosquitoes from breeding. Mosquitoes can grow from egg to adult within seven days if standing water is present.
Free mosquito dunks are available at Code Compliance Services District Offices while supplies last. Residents can report standing water or mosquito problems by calling 3-1-1 or request inclusion on the City’s Do Not Spray list through the same number.
