The Garland Health Department (GHD) received a report of a laboratory confirmed human case of West Nile Virus (WNV) in an individual who lives in the 4700 block of Miami Drive (near the intersection of Broadway Blvd. and Oats Road). This is the second confirmed human case reported in Garland in 2016. The resident was diagnosed with West Nile neuroinvasive disease, the most severe form of WNV infection.GHD will initiate adulticide spraying throughout the surrounding area between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. tonight, weather permitting. If rain or winds in excess of 10 mph prohibit spraying tonight, the area will be sprayed at the first opportunity.
Thus far in 2016, WNV has been detected in 31 mosquito samples trapped in Garland. The presence of WNV in mosquitoes means transmission to humans is possible throughout the city, so residents are urged to take preventive measures. Citizens can view a map depicting areas where WNV virus has been detected and subsequently sprayed to reduce the adult mosquito population on the City of Garland webpage. Spraying activity also will be announced on the City’s Facebook and Twitter pages.
