The ground spraying is set to start at 9 p.m. July 23 and July 25, respectively, and conclude the following day by 4:30 a.m., per the release. Spraying for mosquitoes in the city is conducted by the Richardson Health Department.
What you need to know
City officials made the decision to conduct ground spraying after mosquito samples tested positive for West Nile Virus in two parts of Richardson.
To control the local mosquito population, the city’s health department collects samples on a weekly basis from traps across Richardson starting in April. The city also works with other health agencies and cities to mitigate risks of mosquito-borne diseases.
According to the news release, the ground spraying crews will use a pesticide registered with the Environmental Protection Agency, and crews have equipment to control the release of chemicals as spraying is conducted.
What else?
To protect from mosquito bites, individuals are encouraged to remember the four Ds of protection, including:
- Drain standing water around the home
- Use insect repellent containing deet
- Avoid being outdoors at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active
- And dress to protect yourself with long sleeves and pants to reduce skin exposure
