Officials to spray for West Nile virus after positive sample in Keller

The city of Keller announced July 8 that a positive West Nile virus sample was recorded within city limits.

According to officials, the positive sample was recorded within the 8700 block of Davis Boulevard. It is the city’s first positive test of the year.

Tarrant County Public Health will conduct ground spraying in the area July 9-10 from 9 p.m.-5 a.m., the city said in a statement.

“Efforts will target roads and public land within a half mile of the trap collection site,” the statement said. “Gated communities, please leave your gates open both evenings if you wish to have your streets sprayed.”

TCPH confirmed the first case of West Nile virus in the county April 24.

In 2019, Tarrant County health officials confirmed the county’s first positive West Nile virus mosquito June 14.

Public health officials are reminding residents to safeguard against the virus by dumping standing water, using mosquito repellent, and dressing in long sleeves and pants whenever possible.

Able to be transmitted year-round, West Nile virus is primarily a seasonal epidemic during summer months, according to officials. The virus is most commonly spread via mosquito bite, and symptoms can appear anywhere from two to 14 days after a bite.

For more information on West Nile virus in Tarrant County, click here.