City of Dallas launches mosquito control spraying operations after West Nile Virus detected in samples
Dallas, Texas – Health officials in Dallas are warning residents after mosquito samples collected in the city tested positive for West Nile Virus, prompting mosquito control spraying operations in part of East Dallas this weekend.
City officials announced that weather permitting, mosquito spraying is scheduled to take place overnight between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. from Saturday, May 16, through Sunday, May 17.
The targeted spraying area is centered around the 10700 block of Ruth Ann Drive in the 75228 ZIP code within Council District 9.
According to the city, the control zone generally stretches from Ferguson Road on the north, Joaquin Drive on the west, Barnes Bridge Road on the east, and Santa Teresa Avenue on the south.
Officials said the spraying is part of the city’s ongoing mosquito control efforts aimed at reducing the risk of West Nile Virus transmission.
Residents Urged To Stay Indoors During Spraying
City officials advised residents living in the affected area to avoid contact with the insecticide during active spraying operations, even though the treatment product has been approved by the Environmental Protection Agency.
Residents are being encouraged to remain indoors while spray trucks are operating overnight.
Officials also advised people inside vehicles during spraying operations to keep their windows rolled up and leave air conditioning systems running until the trucks pass and the spray is no longer visible.
People outside during spraying hours were warned not to follow mosquito control vehicles and to remain alert for trucks moving through neighborhoods.
City officials added that anyone who comes into direct contact with the spray should thoroughly wash the affected area using soap and water.
Authorities emphasized that the insecticide quickly breaks down in sunlight and does not leave long-lasting residue.
Dallas Residents Encouraged To Reduce Mosquito Breeding
Along with the spraying effort, officials are also urging residents across Dallas to take additional precautions to avoid mosquito bites and reduce mosquito breeding areas around homes.
Health officials recommended limiting outdoor activity during evening and nighttime hours when mosquitoes are most active.
Residents who spend time outdoors are encouraged to wear clothing that covers their arms and legs and to use mosquito repellent.
The city is also asking residents to eliminate standing water wherever possible because mosquitoes can develop rapidly in stagnant water sources.
Officials warned that breeding locations can include neglected swimming pools, ponds, pet water dishes, birdbaths, potted plants, tires, empty containers, toys, clogged rain gutters, and French drains.
According to city officials, mosquitoes can grow from egg to adult in as little as seven days if standing water is left untreated.
Dallas residents can also obtain free mosquito dunks while supplies last through several Dallas Code Compliance Services district offices located across the city.
Officials said residents should contact 3-1-1 to report standing water concerns or mosquito-related problems.
Residents who wish to be added to the City of Dallas Do Not Spray list can also contact 3-1-1 for additional information.
