City of Burleson , TX

15/08/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 15/08/2024 20:36

Ground-Based Mosquito Spraying to occur between Friday, August 16 through Tuesday, August 20

The city of Burleson was notified that mosquitoes in Zones 2, 3, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 22 and 33 tested positive for West Nile Virus. In response, the city will conduct two nights of ground-based spraying for mosquitoes in these zones between Friday, August 16, through Tuesday, August 20, between the hours of 9 p.m. and 6 a.m., weather permitting.

Find out what zone you live in.

The spraying will be performed in targeted subdivisions within the designated spray zones. In the event of rain or if wind speeds are above 10 miles per hour, the spraying may be rescheduled. This method of spraying targets flying mosquitoes that come in contact with the pesticide in the spray. These times have been chosen because they are the times that most mosquitoes are active (flying).

This brings the city to 44 positives during the 2024 season.

WEST NILE VIRUS AND MOSQUITO ABATEMENT INFORMATION

This year has been above average for the number of mosquito spraying notifications this summer, not just for the city of Burleson, but for all of North Texas. The greater Tarrant County Region has had over 500 mosquito pools test positive for West Nile so far this year, as well as 30 confirmed human cases of West Nile.

When a trap tests positive for West Nile Virus, the city conducts ground-based spraying in that zone to minimize the chance of human transmission. The city also regularly conducts larviciding to target developing mosquitoes and responds to citizen concerns about stagnant water and possible breeding sites.

What can be done to protect your family from West Nile Virus?

With West Nile Virus being widespread this year, it's important to stay informed and take basic precautions to safeguard your family. Follow these steps, known as the 4D's, to reduce the risk:

  1. Drain - Regularly inspect your home and yard for areas where water may collect. Tip over any containers holding standing water, and if necessary, use mosquito dunks or granules to prevent larvae from developing into adult mosquitoes. French drains are common places where water can accumulate, so check those as well.
  2. Dusk/Dawn - The mosquitoes that carry West Nile Virus are most active during the hours between dusk and dawn. If possible, limit outdoor activities during these times, or ensure you're protected with appropriate clothing and insect repellent.
  3. Dress - Wear light-colored, loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and pants to reduce the amount of exposed skin available for mosquitoes to bite.
  4. Defend - When spending time outdoors during dusk or dawn, apply an EPA-approved insect repellent. Common active ingredients include DEET, picaridin, and oil of lemon-eucalyptus.

By staying aware and following these simple steps, you can help protect your family from the risk of West Nile Virus.

How to stay informed?

The city sends details about upcoming spraying directly to residents in the affected zones through its emergency alert system. You can sign up for emergency alerts (or make sure your details are up to date) here: www.burlesontx.com/alert 

If you have mosquito-related questions or concerns, call 817-426-9848 or email [email protected].