The City of Dallas announced on June 3 that mosquito samples in the city have tested positive for West Nile virus. Weather permitting, the affected areas are scheduled for mosquito control spraying between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. each night from Thursday, June 4 to Friday, June 5.
The first area targeted for spraying is within the vicinity of the 6700 block of Sperry Street (75214) in Council District 9, generally bounded by Blessing Drive to the north, Springside Lane to the west, Dalgreen Drive to the east, and Southridge Drive to the south. The second area is near the 4200 block of Maryland Avenue (75216) in Council District 4, bordered by East Overton Road on the north, Sun Valley Drive on the west, Kostner Avenue on the east, and Five Mile Parkway on the south.
While an insecticide approved by the Environmental Protection Agency will be used for treatment, residents in these areas are advised to avoid contact with spray by staying indoors during operations. Those inside vehicles should keep windows up and air conditioning running until trucks pass and spray is no longer visible. Residents who come into contact with spray are advised to wash affected skin thoroughly with soap and water. The city said that “the spray breaks down quickly in sunlight and has no residual effect.” People outdoors during scheduled spraying should remain alert for trucks but not follow them.
Dallas residents are encouraged to take precautions against mosquito bites by reducing outdoor activity during evening hours when mosquitoes are most active. The city advises covering arms and legs when outside at these times and using mosquito repellent.
To prevent mosquito breeding around homes, residents should eliminate standing water from sources such as unmaintained pools, ponds, pet dishes, birdbaths, potted plant trays, old tires, empty containers or toys left outdoors; also clear blocked gutters or French drains promptly since mosquitoes can develop from egg to adult within seven days. Free mosquito dunks are available at Code Compliance district offices while supplies last.
Residents can report stagnant water or mosquito issues by calling 3-1-1 or request inclusion on Dallas’s No Spray List through this service. Additional information about local mosquito control efforts can be found at www.dallascitynews.net/fightthebite.
