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Carrollton Approves Aerial Spraying to Stop Spread of West Nile Virus
Staff Reports
In response to the public health threat posed by West Nile Virus (WNV), the Carrollton City Council met on Wednesday, August 15 at 4:30 p.m. and approved participation in a regional aerial spraying program. This aerial spraying is designed to help stop the severe West Nile virus outbreak in Dallas County and will be conducted by the State of Texas August 16-19, weather permitting.
WNV is a mosquito-borne disease that can cause severe illness or death in humans. At least 14 human cases of WNV have been confirmed in Carrollton. More than 190 cases have been reported in Dallas County.
"We have not taken this action lightly. After much deliberation and analysis, including discussions with State and Federal authorities, this appears to be the best option available to protect the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Carrollton. Our citizens are strongly encouraged to take all necessary precautions related to both the West Nile Virus and the aerial spraying," said Mayor Matthew Marchant. Aerial spraying will occur at night to minimize exposure by non-targeted species. The chemical has a very low toxicity for humans and other mammals and is designed not to create lingering environmental impacts.
The City has engaged in continuous efforts throughout the summer to control the spread of the disease including public awareness activities, ground-based spraying, stagnant water abatement and testing of mosquito samples weekly for evidence of WNV. Carrollton has a West Nile Virus hotline, providing the most up-to-date information on this potentially serious disease in Carrollton. This recorded service includes updates on the City's West Nile Virus activities, such as locations and schedules for mosquito spraying. Callers can also leave requests for more specific information. Please call 972-466-3202 or check the list of frequently asked questions posted online at cityofcarrollton.com for the latest information on West Nile Virus in Carrollton.
WNV is a mosquito-borne disease that can cause severe illness or death in humans. At least 14 human cases of WNV have been confirmed in Carrollton. More than 190 cases have been reported in Dallas County.
"We have not taken this action lightly. After much deliberation and analysis, including discussions with State and Federal authorities, this appears to be the best option available to protect the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Carrollton. Our citizens are strongly encouraged to take all necessary precautions related to both the West Nile Virus and the aerial spraying," said Mayor Matthew Marchant. Aerial spraying will occur at night to minimize exposure by non-targeted species. The chemical has a very low toxicity for humans and other mammals and is designed not to create lingering environmental impacts.
The City has engaged in continuous efforts throughout the summer to control the spread of the disease including public awareness activities, ground-based spraying, stagnant water abatement and testing of mosquito samples weekly for evidence of WNV. Carrollton has a West Nile Virus hotline, providing the most up-to-date information on this potentially serious disease in Carrollton. This recorded service includes updates on the City's West Nile Virus activities, such as locations and schedules for mosquito spraying. Callers can also leave requests for more specific information. Please call 972-466-3202 or check the list of frequently asked questions posted online at cityofcarrollton.com for the latest information on West Nile Virus in Carrollton.
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