Thursday, March 28, 2024

City to Spray After Four Positive Samples of West Nile Virus Reported

The City of Southlake has received notice of four positive West Nile Virus samples from mosquito traps set in four separate locations.

The four locations are:

1) 800 block of Shady Lane

2) 500 block of Bob Jones Road

3) 3200 block Woodland Road

4) 7oo block Ashleigh Lane

Although four positive West Nile Virus samples are double the amount we have received so far this year, we want residents to know that the City strategically set additional traps in areas that have seen increases in mosquito populations.

Environmental Coordinator Christi Upton says, “In response to concerns about West Nile Virus, the City continues to work with residents and businesses to address any new concerns that may arise. Because the City strategically investigates potential areas where West Nile Virus may be found, the City can proactively address the virus before it spreads.”

It’s also important to know that August is traditionally our most active month for West Nile Virus. North Texas Health Departments have been reporting an increase in West Nile Virus in the environment.  The volume of West Nile mosquito samples and cases is greater than any year since 2012, when the last major outbreak occurred.

The City of Southlake will continue to set more traps throughout the year to ensure the safety of our residents and to address any concerns our citizens may have. The current plan calls for an increase in the number of traps, from six to nine, beginning next week.

In response to the current positive samples reported, the City will begin spraying at night within a half mile of all four positive test result locations. The spraying will start on Thursday night 8/11 and continue through Saturday night, weather permitting.

Again, please remember the personal preparedness steps you can take to help protect yourself from the West Nile Virus while the City works to control the mosquito population through targeted spraying.

  • Drain standing water in artificial containers; or treat the water with mosquito dunks is the primary source of mosquitoes
  • Dress in long sleeves
  • Wear insect repellent containing DEET

The City of Southlake keeps a limited supply of mosquito dunks for our residents. The mosquito dunks can be picked up at Public Works Operations at 1950 E. Continental or DPS Headquarters at 600 State St. And as always, if you have any mosquito concerns, please reach out to our environmental coordinator at cupton@ci.southlake.tx.us.

For more information about the West Nile Virus, personal protective measures, or response actions, please visit CityofSouthlake.com or MySouthlakeNews.com.

To see an interactive map of the City of Southlake’s mosquito prevention efforts click here.

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