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West Nile and Steps to control mosquito breeding
What is West Nile Virus?
West Nile virus is caused by a bite from an infected mosquito that's already carrying the virus, but it's important to remember that not all mosquitoes are infected. In many parts of the United States, the risk of being bitten by an infected mosquito is greatest from July to early September. But in some parts of the country, mosquito bites can be a risk all year long. Not everyone who gets bitten by an infected mosquito will get the virus. And although kids can get West Nile virus, it's rare for them to become very sick from it.
How is West Nile Virus Transmitted?
The West Nile is transmitted to people by the bite of an infected mosquito. While the mosquito is biting to take blood the virus transfers into not only humans but animals too.
What is happening in my area to prevent West Nile or where may I obtain more information?
Mosquito control is provided by the Dallas County Mosquito Control Department
Dallas County Health & Human Services
CDC Information (Center for Disease Control
What can I do to help prevent mosquito breeding?
There are plenty of potential places in which mosquitoes can develop.
The listed effective steps will help minimize mosquito breeding and control:
West Nile virus is caused by a bite from an infected mosquito that's already carrying the virus, but it's important to remember that not all mosquitoes are infected. In many parts of the United States, the risk of being bitten by an infected mosquito is greatest from July to early September. But in some parts of the country, mosquito bites can be a risk all year long. Not everyone who gets bitten by an infected mosquito will get the virus. And although kids can get West Nile virus, it's rare for them to become very sick from it.
How is West Nile Virus Transmitted?
The West Nile is transmitted to people by the bite of an infected mosquito. While the mosquito is biting to take blood the virus transfers into not only humans but animals too.
What is happening in my area to prevent West Nile or where may I obtain more information?
Mosquito control is provided by the Dallas County Mosquito Control Department
Dallas County Health & Human Services
CDC Information (Center for Disease Control
What can I do to help prevent mosquito breeding?
There are plenty of potential places in which mosquitoes can develop.
- A neglected bird bath
- A neglected swimming pool
- Clogged rain gutters
- Uprooted trees by storms that collect seepage & rainwater
The listed effective steps will help minimize mosquito breeding and control:
- Dispose of old tires, buckets, aluminum cans, plastic sheeting or other refuse that can hold water. Empty accumulated water from trash cans, boars, wheel barrels, pet dishes and flower pot bottoms.
- Clean debris from rain gutters and unclog obstructed downspout. Clogged rain gutters are one of the most overlooked breeding sites for mosquitoes. Remove any standing water on flat roofs or around structures. Repair leaking faucets and air conditioners that produce standing puddles.
- Fill or drain ditches and swampy areas, and other soil depressions and remove, drain or fill tree holes and stumps with mortar (bonding material) or sealant to prevent accumulation of water. Eliminate standing water and seepage around animal water troughs, cisterns and septic tanks. Be sure that cistern screens are intact and that the access cover fits tightly.
- Irrigate lawns and gardens carefully to prevent water from standing for several days.