The City of Arlington has initiated a targeted ground spraying program to combat a rising number of West Nile Virus cases following the confirmation of seven infected mosquito samples. These mosquito management efforts will selectively target specific locations across the city, aiming to sharply decrease the mosquito population carrying the virus. Scheduled to occur over two consecutive nights, the spraying is set for Tuesday and Wednesday, weather permitting, between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m., according to the City of Arlington, Texas.
In the neighboring Town of Pantega, with one reported positive West Nile Virus mosquito sample, the CDC protocols have necessitated the extension of the targeted spraying initiative, expected to also include a part of Arlington. Locations delineated for this immediate response include areas around Cooper Street, Park Hill Drive, and other key sites where the virus presence has been confirmed. To effectively control the adult mosquito population, an ultra-low volume application of a water-based permethrin product will be utilized. The city has been proactive, already having strategically deployed larvicide and performed thorough checks in areas prone to standing water – which often serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
Residents can take personal preventative steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites, such as wearing long sleeves and pants during outdoor activities and using repellents that contain DEET. Eliminating sources of standing water around homes is greatly advised to disrupt the lifecycle of mosquitoes. The city encourages the use of biological larvicides available commercially for areas of stagnant water that cannot be drained.
