Dallas County Health and Human Services (DCHHS) held a press conference Wednesday to announce its collaboration with the DEET Education Program, Washington, D.C. that will allow low-income seniors in Dallas County to receive free insect repellent in order to help protect themselves against the West Nile Virus.
DCHHS will begin distributing 2,000 DEET-based repellent products to low-income seniors who participate in DCHHS Older Adult Services Program. DCHHS will also have informational brochures showing proper repellent application in English and Spanish available for distribution.
“Public education is vital in protecting the community from West Nile Virus,” said DCHHS Director Zachary Thompson. “I want to thank the DEET Education Program for its donation of insect repellent and educational materials to help us protect the public from West Nile Virus.”
Dallas County has 190 West Nile Virus human cases and 10 West Nile Virus related deaths.
“Statistically, seniors are more likely to develop the more serious forms of the illness including encephalitis and meningitis,” said Dr. Christopher Perkins, Medical Director/Health Authority.
“However, anyone bitten by an infected mosquito can contract West Nile Virus.
Dr. Perkins encourages the public to minimize exposure to the insect, take personal responsibility and to take the necessary precautions by following the 4 D’s:
(1) Dress in long, loose and light-colored clothing;
(2) use insect repellents that contain DEET;
(3) Drain any standing water;
(4) stay indoors during Dawn and Dusk hours.
Studies show that 80 percent of the people who get the more serious forms of West Nile
Virus did not use insect repellent,” said Dr. Perkins. “The only way to avoid West Nile Virus is to avoid mosquito bites.”
To report or inquire about mosquito activity in Dallas County contact 214-819-2115.
