Mosquito sample in Grapevine tests positive for West Nile virus

The city sprayed for West Nile virus July 9 after receiving its first official confirmation of 2015 that one mosquito sample in Grapevine has tested positive for carrying the virus.

A positive mosquito sample was detected in the 2600 block of Briarwood Drive near Fire Station No. 3.

Mosquito control ground spraying was conducted on Thursday.

The area to be sprayed was within a half mile radius of the 2600 block of Briarwood, said Mona Burk, city spokeswoman.

While the insectide is approved by the Environmental Protection Agency for treatment, residents are always asked to take precautions during spraying.

Residents should avoid contact with the spray by staying indoors; keep windows and doors closed during spraying; persons inside a vehicle while trucks are actively spraying should remain in their vehicles with the windows up and the air conditioner on until the trucks pass and the spray is no longer visible; persons out during the scheduled spraying time should be alert for trucks and should not follow them; cover ornamental ponds and birdbaths; bring pets inside for the night; and bring in pet dishes or cover them.

Residents who come in contact with the spray are advised to wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water. The spray breaks down quickly in the presence of sunlight and has no residual effect.

If you have health problems, such as asthma, take precautions as directed by your doctor, if necessary.

Grapevine residents are urged to take precautions against mosquito bites by reducing outdoor activity during evening and night hours. Residents who are outside during these times should cover their arms and legs and apply a mosquito repellant that contains DEET.

Residents should eliminate any standing water to prevent mosquito breeding and the spread of the virus. Breeding places for mosquitoes include swimming pools that are not kept clean, stagnant ponds, pet watering dishes, birdbaths, potted plants, old tires, empty containers, toys, clogged rain gutters and French drains. Standing water should be eliminated promptly.

Complimentary mosquito dunks to place in standing water that cannot be drained are available at the Municipal Service Center at 501 Shady Brook from 7 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday – Friday.

To report standing water or mosquito problems, Grapevine residents should call 817-410-3330. For additional information on mosquito control, go to GrapevineTexas.gov.

This story was originally published July 21, 2015 at 11:09 AM with the headline "Mosquito sample in Grapevine tests positive for West Nile virus."