In a measure to combat the resurgence of West Nile Virus (WNV), the City of Arlington will be taking a proactive stance with targeted ground spraying, following the discovery of a virus-carrying mosquito sample. This initiative, which also extends into the neighboring town of Pantego, is pegged for two consecutive nights, September 10 and 11, between the witching hours of 9 p.m. and 5 a.m., weather permitting, said a report from the City of Arlington.
Aiming to reduce the infected mosquito population, the operation will utilize a permethrin-based spray, reported to be a water-soluble product that is used only when other methods, like larvicide, have fallen short of expectations, the effort arises not only out of a deep-seated need to protect public health but also as a part of an ongoing crusade against the vector-borne menace that begins tirelessly with the onset of mosquito season.
In addition to this, residents have been armed with knowledge meant to fortify themselves against these minuscule yet ominous threats by dressing in protective clothing, using DEET-based repellents, draining stagnant waters, where these mosquitoes are wont to breed, and utilizing mosquito dunks for persistent shallow waters, as a means of community-led prevention and control was imparted by the City's collaboration with Tarrant County Public Health.
No significant dangers are anticipated for animals or the environment due to the spraying, and the city advises that although no special measures are needed, individuals with chemical sensitivities or respiratory conditions such as asthma can reduce potential exposure by staying indoors during spraying times; once the pesticide subsides, it degrades rapidly and is unlikely to leave lasting environmental traces.
