Additional Highland Park Mosquitos Test Positive for West Nile Virus
Additional mosquito samples have tested positive for West Nile Virus in both the east and west sides of Highland Park, town officials said Thursday.
The Parks Department will conduct ground spraying measures townwide this weekend to reduce the density of adult mosquito populations.
This is the third mosquito test in Highland Park to test positive for West Nile. Last week and in late June, traps located on the east side of Highland Park revealed a positive mosquito sample for West Nile Virus, according to a town news release.
University Park, which had also recorded a positive test sprayed last weekend.
Residents should remain inside during the time sprayers are in the area. Spraying will not be conducted in the event of wind speeds more than 10 mph or inclement weather.
Weather permitting, spraying will begin at 10 p.m. Friday and conclude by 5 a.m. through Sunday.
This recent news follows an announcement earlier this week where the first human case of West Nile virus has been recorded in Dallas County for 2018, the Dallas County Health and Human Services Department confirmed.
A resident living in the 75061 ZIP code was diagnosed with the neuroinvasive form of the disease, the more serious form of the virus.
Symptoms of West Nile Neuroinvasive Disease include a headache, high fever, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, and paralysis.
Residents should use the 4Ds to reduce exposure to mosquitoes:
DEET All Day, Every Day: Whenever you’re outside, use insect repellents that contain DEET or other EPA approved repellents and follow instructions.
- Dress: Wear long, loose, and light-colored clothing outside.
- Drain: Drain or treat all standing water in and around your home or workplace.
- Dusk & Dawn: Limit outdoor activities during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
