The area being sprayed is from Apollo Road heading south toward Buckingham Road and Bowser Road heading east toward Jupiter Road. According to the press release, the city's decision to spray was a result of health officials being notified of a positive West Nile virus test.
Richardson officials said West Nile virus is transmitted by a bite from an infected mosquito that is already carrying the virus, but not all mosquitoes are capable of carrying or transmitting the disease.
According to the press release, the risk of being bitten by an infected mosquito in North Texas is greatest from July to October.
Health Department officials said Richardson uses pesticide in order to help prevent the spread of mosquito-borne disease transmitted by adult mosquitoes. The pesticide used to help control the mosquito populations is applied by using a truck-mounted ultra-low volume sprayer that puts out only a small amount of pesticide.
Spraying events are expected to last between 9 p.m.-4 a.m., though they may run until 4:30 a.m. depending upon the size of the spray area, according to the press release. City officials said they are scheduling spraying events during overnight hours to limit exposure to people who may wish to avoid contact with the pesticide used to control mosquito populations.
City officials said residents should follow a few tips in order to protect from mosquito bites:
- Drain standing water around the home.
- Use insect repellent containing the chemical Deet.
- Avoid being outdoors at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
- Dress to protect yourself with long sleeves and pants to reduce skin exposure.
