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Additional Positive Testing of Mosquitoes for West Nile Virus Reported
The Plano Environmental Health Department reports routine monitoring has resulted in a positive testing of mosquitoes for West Nile Virus in the 75075 ZIP code.
The Department will be increasing its testing of mosquitoes in the area and will closely monitor the need for additional mosquito larvicide or spraying measures with informational flyers distributed to residents and businesses in the affected area in the coming week.
On-going testing, residential notifications and larvicide/spraying measures remain in the 75074 zip code area, where two positive tests were reported this month.
The Department has determined the West Nile Virus is present in the City and continues to monitor and provide appropriate measures as positive samples are reported by the Texas Department of State Health Services.
A West Nile Virus informational hotline (972.941.7180) has been implemented to answer the most commonly asked questions regarding the Virus, at-home prevention measures and Health Department mosquito vector control.
Additional information and updates to the map for neighborhoods that have been treated may be found on the department’s web site at: http://www.plano.gov/Health/Pages/WNV.aspx
The risk of West Nile transmission increases during the summer months due to a rise in the Culex mosquito population, which thrives in hot weather and may carry the Virus after biting infected birds.
Aside from being vigilant in prevention of mosquito bites, the best prevention against any mosquito-borne disease is to implement appropriate measures to reduce the mosquito population. Mosquitoes need standing water to lay their eggs, producing adults in just ten days in hot temperatures.
Citizens are encouraged to take the following precautions:
Drain standing water in your yard – old tires, flower pots, clogged rain gutters, bird baths, etc. Keep your swimming pool maintained with the water circulating. These are mosquito breeding sites. DEET is an ingredient to look for in your insect repellent. Follow label instructions and always wear repellent when outdoors.
Dusk/Dawn are the times of day you should try to stay indoors. This is when mosquitoes are most active.
Dress in long sleeves and pants if you are outside between dusk and dawn. For extra protection, you may want to spray thin clothing with repellent.
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