Mosquito Trap Tests Positive for West Nile in DeSoto

A mosquito found in one of the traps set in DeSoto by the Dallas County Health and Human Services has tested positive for the West Nile Virus.

The DCHHS has announced that the mosquito samples have tested positive for the virus.

In response, DCHHS will be ground spraying to target affected areas in coordination with the city.

The scheduled ground spraying will take place on Wednesday, May 29th, and Thursday, May 30th, from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m.

Residents are advised to stay indoors during these hours to avoid insecticide exposure.

Preventive Measures for Residents

DCHHS urges residents to take proactive steps to reduce mosquito breeding grounds and protect themselves from mosquito bites.

Recommended measures that residents can take include:

• Use of Insect Repellents: Apply repellents containing DEET or other EPA-registered ingredients whenever outdoors, following label instructions.
• Appropriate Clothing: Wear long, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing to reduce the risk of mosquito bites.
• Eliminating Standing Water: Regularly drain or treat standing water around homes and workplaces to prevent mosquito breeding. EPA-approved larvicides, such as Mosquito Dunks, are available for free at the Action Center in City Hall.
• Time Outdoors: Limit outdoor activities, especially during peak mosquito activity times, which include day, dusk, and dawn.

Spray Area and Weather Conditions:

The DCHHS will suspend spraying operations if wind speeds exceed 10 mph or during inclement weather.

Residents can view a detailed map of the spray areas online at Dallas County Public Map.

The spraying initiative is managed by Dallas County, not the City of DeSoto.

Residents needing EPA-approved larvicides also called “Mosquito Dunks” will be able to find them in the Action Center in City Hall at no charge.

For more information on West Nile Virus and preventive measures, residents are encouraged to visit the Dallas County Health and Human Services website.

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