Richardson will continue spraying to combat mosquitoes carrying the West Nile Virus according to a Dallas Morning News article from October 12. In it they report,
“Richardson plans to ground spray one area of the city on both Tuesday and Wednesday night after mosquito samples tested positive for the West Nile virus, the city said in a news release.”
The decision to spray came after city health department workers were notified that a trap located within the spraying area returned mosquitoes that tested positive for West Nile virus. The city began testing for the virus on a weekly basis in April.”
Just this September, Richardson has initiated its three consecutive weeks of spraying in different areas according to a Dallas Morning News article from September 28. They say,
“This is the third week in a row that the city has ground sprayed in response to the virus. The decision to spray came after health department workers were notified that a trap located within the spraying location contained mosquitoes carrying the disease.”
The spraying location in Richardson is an area bordered to the east by Murphy Road and running south to Renner Road and west of Rowlett Creek.”
Unlike Covid-19, there is no vaccine for West Nile Virus. So the most effective thing to do is avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes according to a Center for Disease Control and Prevention article. They say,
“The best way to prevent West Nile is to protect yourself from mosquito bites. Use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, treat clothing and gear, and take steps to control mosquitoes indoors and outdoors.”
Additionally, there are more ways how to decrease the chances of contracting West Nile Virus such as following the Four D’s according to a Richardson Texas article which instructs,
“DRAIN standing water around the home
Use insect repellent containing DEET
Avoid being outdoors at DUSK and DAWN
DRESS to protect yourself with long sleeves and pants”
Citizens, aside from being reminded to take care of themselves and their children and pets, are also asked to stay indoors during the hours of spraying.
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