Mosquito control spraying in Central Dallas this weekend for West Nile virus

DALLAS – An area in Central Dallas is scheduled for mosquito control spraying starting at 10 p.m. Saturday July 27 and Sunday July 28. Mosquitoes infected with the West Nile virus were found in a City of Highland Park trap located near the Dallas city limits. Weather permitting, the area delineated below is scheduled for mosquito control ground spraying:

Control Area: The area to be sprayed is within an area bounded generally on the north by Winton Street, on the west by Central Expressway, bounded by Monticello Avenue on the south andMcMillan Avenue on the east.

While the insecticide is approved by the Environmental Protection Agency for treatment, residents in the above areas should avoid contact with the spray by staying indoors. Persons 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 and the spray is no longer visible. Persons out during the scheduled spraying time should be alert for trucks and should not follow them. Residents who come in contact with the spray are advised to wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water. The spray breaks down quickly in the presence of sunlight and has no residual effect.

Protection against mosquito bites

Dallas residents are urged to take precautions against mosquito bites by reducing outdoor activity during evening and nighttime hours. Residents who are outside during these times should cover their arms and legs and use a mosquito repellant.

Prevent mosquito breeding

Residents should eliminate standing water to prevent mosquito breeding and the spread of West Nile Virus. 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. Standing water should be eliminated promptly, as mosquitoes can grow from egg to adult in as little as seven days.  

To report standing water or mosquito problems Dallas residents should call 3-1-1. For additional information on mosquito control visit www.dallascityhall.com.