Friday, March 29, 2024

UPDATE: Mosquito Sample Tests Positive for WNV – Ground Spraying to take place 9/12

UPDATE September 12, 2013: Spraying will begin at approximately 9:00p.m. and continue for several hours. Residents in the affected area are encouraged to take the proper precautions listed below during this time. For frequently asked questions about ground spraying, click here.

The City of Southlake has been notified that a mosquito sample has tested positive for the West Nile Virus. The sample was taken from a trap at 700 Greymoor Place which is located south of Rockenbaugh Elementary School. The City has made the decision to ground spray, using Permanonea, in a ½ mile radius  around where the sample was found (see map below).  Ground spraying will take place Thursday night (9/12) in accordance with the City’s West Nile Virus Action Plan.

“While this is Southlake’s first positive test this year, we feel that it’s important to take action quickly to help eliminate future positive tests,” said Public Works Director Bob Price. “In the meantime, people who live in the area are encouraged to protect themselves and their families, by using bug spray every time you go outdoors and staying indoors during the dusk and dawn hours.”

During spraying people are encouraged to follow these precautions:

  • Avoid being outside during spraying; close windows and keep pets inside.
  • If skin or clothes are exposed, wash them with soap and water.
  • Rinse homegrown fruits and vegetables with water as a general precautionary measure.
  • Cover small ornamental fish ponds.
  • Because the chemical breaks down quickly in sunlight and water, no special precautions are suggested for outdoor swimming areas.

Once spraying is complete, city staff will continue to inspect and if needed treat public property for mosquitoes. Mosquito samples will also continue to be taken in specified locations and then will be sent to Tarrant County for testing. Southlake residents are encouraged to remain vigilant on private property to help reduce the mosquito population.

Price reminds everyone to Fight the Bite. Anything that can hold water for just a few days can become a mosquito breeding ground. Be sure to check your property for standing water. In addition to checking small containers, house gutters and French drains, staff encourages you to check for areas such as your water meter box, any tree holes, blocked irrigation heads, gutter drains and other underground pipes, pool overflow pipes, storm drains for the presence of standing water. Finally, don’t forget to use insect repellent whenever you are outside where mosquitoes may be present.

For more information on what Southlake is doing in the area of mosquito surveillance and control, please see CityofSouthlake.com/WestNileVirus.

 

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