Now that the first wave of people exposed to the Ebola virus have completed their quarantine. the threat of the Ebola virus feels less severe. But it’s still important to remain vigilant against the other deadly virus that’s looming close to home.
A mosquito pool located on the 11400 block of Park Central has tested positive for West Nile Virus this week. As a result, the city has sent out workers to spray Monday night from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. They will be hitting the streets depicted in the map pictured above again tonight, from 9 p.m. through 5 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 22.
The areas to be sprayed are within generally bounded by Forest on the north, St. Michaels on the west, Central on the east and Royal on the south.
This year, nine people have contracted West Nile virus. The good news is that there have yet to be any fatalities this year due to the virus in Dallas County — that’s down from last year’s two fatal cases (and 2012’s staggering 20 West Nile virus deaths.)
But we’re not in the clear yet: Dallas county health officials tell Dallas Morning News that Culex mosquitoes, which carry the disease, usually stick around until November.
In the meantime, remember the “Four Ds”: 1. Dusk until dawn, stay indoors. 2. Drain standing water. 3. Dress in long sleeves/pants. 4. DEET or other insect repellent — use it.
