City of Dallas launches mosquito control effort after West Nile Virus detected in local samples

Dallas, Texas – Dallas health officials are preparing mosquito control spraying operations after mosquito samples collected in part of the city tested positive for West Nile Virus.

The City of Dallas announced that weather permitting, spraying operations are scheduled to take place overnight between Tuesday, May 26, and Wednesday, May 27. The spraying is expected to occur between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. in a section of northeast Dallas located near Silvertree Drive.

According to city officials, the treatment area includes neighborhoods generally bordered by Morgan Meadow Lane to the north, Pleasant Valley Drive to the west, White Elm Road to the east, and Forest Lane to the south.

The city said the mosquito control effort is part of an ongoing response aimed at reducing mosquito populations and lowering the risk of West Nile Virus transmission.

Residents Urged to Stay Indoors During Spraying

Although the insecticide being used has been approved by the Environmental Protection Agency, officials are still encouraging residents in the affected area to avoid direct contact with the spray.

City officials advised residents to remain indoors while spraying trucks are active in the neighborhood. People traveling in vehicles during spraying operations are being told to keep windows rolled up and air conditioning running until the trucks move through the area and the visible spray disappears.

Officials also warned pedestrians and anyone outdoors not to follow spraying vehicles during treatment operations.

Residents who accidentally come into contact with the spray are encouraged to wash exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water.

The city emphasized that the insecticide breaks down rapidly when exposed to sunlight and leaves no lasting residual effect after treatment.

City Encourages Mosquito Bite Prevention

Along with the spraying operation, Dallas officials are encouraging residents across the city to take additional precautions against mosquito bites, especially during evening and nighttime hours when mosquitoes are most active.

Health officials recommend that residents limit outdoor activities during peak mosquito periods whenever possible. People who do spend time outside are encouraged to wear long sleeves, cover exposed skin, and apply mosquito repellent.

City leaders are also reminding residents that removing standing water is one of the most effective ways to stop mosquito breeding and reduce the spread of West Nile Virus.

Officials said mosquitoes can breed in a wide range of common outdoor items and areas, including neglected swimming pools, birdbaths, pet water dishes, clogged gutters, old tires, potted plants, toys, stagnant ponds, and empty containers capable of holding water.

According to the city, mosquitoes can develop from eggs into adults in as little as seven days, making regular cleanup especially important during warmer months.

Dallas residents can also obtain free mosquito dunks from Code Compliance Services district offices while supplies last. The dunks are designed to help eliminate mosquito larvae in standing water.

The city additionally encouraged residents to report standing water or mosquito-related concerns by contacting 3-1-1.

Residents who wish to be added to the city’s Do Not Spray list may also contact 3-1-1 for assistance.

Officials say mosquito control efforts will continue throughout mosquito season as the city monitors mosquito samples and responds to potential health risks connected to West Nile Virus activity across Dallas.