City of Dallas activates mosquito control effort to combat West Nile Virus outbreak risk

Dallas, Texas – In response to mosquito samples testing positive for the West Nile Virus, the City of Dallas has announced mosquito control spraying across designated neighborhoods. The spraying will occur overnight, beginning Tuesday, June 17, through Wednesday, June 18, between the hours of 9 p.m. and 5 a.m., weather permitting. City officials are urging residents in the affected areas to take precautions to reduce exposure and help prevent mosquito breeding.

Spraying Zones and Safety Instructions

Two primary areas in Council District 7 have been identified for spraying. The first control zone is centered around the 2300 block of Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard (75215), and is bounded by S. Malcolm X Boulevard to the north, Coombs Street to the west, Dathe Street to the east, and Cleveland Street to the south.

The second designated area includes the 2700 block of Lawrence Street (75215), and is bordered by Roberts Avenue on the north, Eugene Street on the west, Vannerson Drive on the east, and the CF Hawn Freeway to the south.

While the Environmental Protection Agency has approved the insecticide being used, officials strongly advise residents in these zones to stay indoors during spraying hours. “People inside a vehicle while trucks are actively spraying should remain in their vehicles with the windows up and the air conditioner on until the trucks pass through, and the spray is no longer visible.” Those who may come into contact with the spray are advised to “wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water.”

The City of Dallas also noted that the insecticide breaks down rapidly in sunlight and does not leave a lasting residue. Individuals walking outdoors during spray times are urged not to follow or approach the spray trucks for safety reasons.

Tips for Personal Protection and Prevention

Dallas health officials are also emphasizing mosquito bite prevention strategies. Residents are encouraged to reduce outdoor activity during the evening and nighttime hours when mosquitoes are most active. If time outside is necessary, long sleeves and pants are recommended, along with a mosquito repellent.

Additionally, eliminating mosquito breeding grounds is critical. “Breeding places for mosquitoes include swimming pools that are not kept clean, stagnant ponds, pet watering dishes, birdbaths, potted plants, old tires, empty containers, toys and clogged rain gutters and French drains.” Since mosquitoes can develop from egg to adult in as few as seven days, the city urges all residents to inspect and clean their properties regularly.

To support prevention efforts, the City of Dallas is providing free mosquito dunks while supplies last. These can be picked up at any of 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

Residents can report standing water or mosquito problems by calling 3-1-1. To be added to the City’s “Do Not Spray” list, residents may also contact 3-1-1. Additional details about the city’s mosquito control program and virus prevention can be found at www.dallascitynews.net/fightthebite.

As Dallas intensifies efforts to combat the spread of West Nile Virus, the public’s cooperation remains a crucial part of protecting community health.