Mosquito control spraying planned in Dallas neighborhoods following positive West Nile Virus tests

Dallas, Texas – The City of Dallas has confirmed that mosquito samples in the area have tested positive for the West Nile Virus, prompting health officials to schedule mosquito control spraying. If weather conditions allow, trucks will spray insecticide between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. on the nights of Tuesday, August 26, and Wednesday, August 27.

Two separate control areas have been identified for treatment:

• 7300 Cliffbrook Drive (75254) – Council District 11: The boundaries include Rolling Acres Drive on the north, Hillcrest Road on the west, Coit Road on the east, and Paldao Drive on the south.

• 4200 Maryland Avenue (75216) – Council District 4: The boundaries include East Overton Road on the north, Sun Valley Drive on the west, Kostner Avenue on the east, and Five Mile Parkway on the south.

The insecticide being used is approved by the Environmental Protection Agency, but officials are urging residents to take steps to minimize exposure during spraying operations.

Health and Safety Precautions During Spraying

Residents living in the designated areas should stay indoors while spraying is underway. Anyone driving through an active spray zone should remain in their vehicles with the windows rolled up and the air conditioner on until spray trucks have passed and the mist is no longer visible. Pedestrians should avoid the spraying area, and officials caution residents not to follow the trucks.

If individuals do come into contact with the spray, they are advised to wash the affected area with soap and water. City officials emphasize that the insecticide breaks down quickly in sunlight and leaves no residual effect.

Reducing Mosquito Bites

Health officials are also reminding the public to take personal precautions to avoid mosquito bites, which are the primary way West Nile Virus is transmitted. Residents are encouraged to:

• Limit outdoor activities during the evening and nighttime hours when mosquitoes are most active.

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long sleeves and pants.

• Use a mosquito repellent when spending time outdoors.

Preventing Mosquito Breeding

To reduce the mosquito population, Dallas residents are urged to eliminate standing water around their homes and neighborhoods. Potential breeding grounds include:

• Poorly maintained swimming pools

• Stagnant ponds

• Birdbaths and pet water dishes

• Plant saucers and other containers

• Toys left outdoors

• Old tires and clogged rain gutters

Because mosquitoes can grow from egg to adult in just seven days, eliminating standing water promptly is essential to preventing future outbreaks.

Free mosquito dunks are available while supplies last at the following Code Compliance Services District Offices:

• 3112 Canton St. (Code Administration) – 214-670-5708

• 7901 Goforth Rd. (North Central, North East) – 214-670-9703

• 2721 Municipal St. (South East) – 214-671-0978

• 320 East Jefferson Blvd. (Central/South Central) – 214-948-4587

• 4230 W. Illinois Ave. (South West) – 214-670-6860

• 9803 Harry Hines Blvd. (North West) – 214-670-9713

Reporting Mosquito Issues

Residents who notice standing water or mosquito problems can call 3-1-1. The same number can also be used to request inclusion on the city’s Do Not Spray list. Additional information about mosquito control efforts is available at www.dallascitynews.net/fightthebite.

The City of Dallas is urging residents to remain vigilant as it works to control the spread of West Nile Virus, emphasizing that both city efforts and individual precautions are critical in protecting public health.