Dallas officials announce overnight mosquito spraying after local samples test positive for West Nile Virus
Dallas, Texas – Health officials in Dallas are warning residents after mosquito samples collected in part of the city tested positive for the West Nile Virus, prompting overnight mosquito control spraying in an effort to reduce the risk of additional spread.
City officials announced that spraying operations are scheduled to take place between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. from Saturday, May 9 through Sunday, May 10, weather permitting. The spraying effort is focused on an area within Council District 8 near 13800 Garden Grove Drive in southeast Dallas.
According to the city, the treatment zone is generally bordered by Dorothy Nell Drive to the north, Cedar Bluff Lane to the west, Coltview Place to the east, and CF Hawn Freeway to the south.
Officials said the spraying operation is part of Dallas’ ongoing mosquito control program after testing confirmed the presence of the virus in local mosquito samples.
Residents Urged To Stay Indoors During Spraying
While city officials stressed that the insecticide used for mosquito treatment has been approved by the Environmental Protection Agency, residents living in the treatment area are still being urged to avoid direct exposure to the spray.
People are advised to remain indoors while spraying trucks are operating in their neighborhoods. Officials also warned drivers who encounter active spraying vehicles to keep their windows rolled up and leave the air conditioner running until the trucks have passed and the spray is no longer visible.
Residents who happen to come into contact with the spray are encouraged to wash the affected area thoroughly using soap and water.
Officials noted that the insecticide breaks down quickly once exposed to sunlight and does not leave behind long-term residue.
The city also cautioned pedestrians and motorists not to follow spraying trucks while they are actively treating neighborhoods.
Dallas Residents Encouraged To Prevent Mosquito Breeding
Health officials are also reminding residents that preventing standing water is one of the most important steps in reducing mosquito populations and limiting the spread of West Nile Virus.
Authorities warned that mosquitoes can mature from eggs into adults in as little as seven days, making stagnant water a serious concern during warmer months.
Potential breeding sites include dirty swimming pools, birdbaths, clogged gutters, pet water bowls, stagnant ponds, old tires, toys, empty containers, French drains, and potted plants that collect rainwater.
Residents are being urged to regularly empty or clean any containers capable of holding water around homes and properties.
The city is also offering free mosquito dunks to Dallas residents while supplies last through several Code Compliance Services district offices located throughout the city. Distribution locations include offices on Canton Street, Goforth Road, Municipal Street, East Jefferson Boulevard, West Illinois Avenue, and Harry Hines Boulevard.
Officials said residents can report standing water or mosquito concerns by contacting 3-1-1. Dallas residents may also use the same number if they wish to be added to the city’s Do Not Spray list.
The city continues encouraging residents to protect themselves against mosquito bites, especially during evening and nighttime hours when mosquitoes are most active. Officials recommend limiting outdoor activity during those times whenever possible, along with wearing clothing that covers the arms and legs and using mosquito repellent outdoors.
Additional mosquito control and prevention information is available through the city’s Fight the Bite program.
