Keller, Colleyville report first mosquito samples test positive for West Nile virus

The cities of Keller and Colleyville recently reported that mosquito samples from within their city limits have tested positive for the West Nile virus.

Keller conducted ground spraying last weekend; this was the city’s first positive this year.

Colleyville’s protocol calls for ground spraying after three positive samples; this was their first positive this year.

Tarrant County Public Health Department notified the city of Colleyville last week of a positive test result for the virus in the the vicinity of the cross section of Forest Meadow and Pleasant Run Road.

The test site was treated with larvacide and is scheduled for continued treatment and testing.

In Keller, the sample was taken from a trap at 7000 Shady Grove Road.

In accordance with the city’s Mosquito Abatement policies and recommendations from Tarrant County Public Health, ground spraying took place Saturday and Sunday, Efforts targeted city-owned land within a half-mile of the trap collection site.

The contractor used water-based insecticides that offer low toxicity, low odor, rapid biodegradation and high mosquito mortality.

To protect themselves and their family, residents are asked to follow the four D’s throughout the summer:

▪ Dusk and dawn are the times of day to stay indoors. This is when mosquitos are most active.

▪ Dress in long sleeves and pants when outside. For extra protection, spray thin clothing with repellent.

▪ DEET is an ingredient to look for in insect repellent. Always wear repellent when outdoors and choose products that contain up to 20 percent DEET. Carefully follow product instructions, especially when using repellants on children.

▪ Draining water standing in a resident’s yard and neighborhood is the most effective way to control mosquito populations.

All Keller residents are encouraged to continue assisting the city with mosquito abatement by checking that ponds and drainage channels are not stagnant and items such as wheelbarrows, play pools, swimming pools, bird baths, yard toys and other places water collects are emptied or drained.

This story was originally published August 11, 2015 at 3:53 PM with the headline "Keller, Colleyville report first mosquito samples test positive for West Nile virus."