On Thursday, August 16, state health officials began spraying in Garland, Richardson, Highland Park and parts of Dallas overnight in an effort to control mosquitoes carrying West Nile Virus. Over 50,000 acres were sprayed but due to rain they could not complete the full 100,000 acres planned and it was halted at 2 a.m. Later today officials will announce the areas they plan to spray tonight. Two additional planes have been brought to the area to help with tonight’s spraying and increase the reach of the area sprayed.
Spraying in different parts of the Metroplex including Fort Worth, are planned for Friday night between the hours of 9 p.m. and midnight. Health officials indicate this window of time is the primary time that mosquitoes are flying. The spraying schedule is contingent on weather conditions, including rain and wind.
In a television interview, Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins said the spraying was launched after consulting with local medical experts as well as federal and state officials.
Others have shared concerns about possible impact on children and pets. They also feel like other non-chemical alternatives should be pursued. Reportedly honeybees locally have been adversely effected by the spraying done via trucks in recent weeks.
Additionally, while the spraying will kill adult mosquitoes flying at the time of spraying, this will reportedly have no impact on those hiding within covered wet areas such as the sewer and drain lines.
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Minimize exposure. Avoid being outside, close windows and consider keeping pets inside while spraying occurs. Â
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If skin or clothes are exposed, wash them with soap and water. Â
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Rinse homegrown fruits and vegetables with water as a general precautionary measure. Â
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Cover small ornamental fish ponds. Â
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Because the chemical breaks down quickly in sunlight and water, no special precautions are suggested for outdoor swimming areas. Â
