ABILENE, Texas — After a mosquito in the 79602 ZIP code area tested positive for the West Nile virus during routine trapping and testing, the City of Abilene will spray insecticide between 10 p.m. Thursday and 2 a.m. Friday.
Because the type of mosquito found infected is known to be active in the evening hours, city staff will spray during those hours to make sure the insecticide is most effective.
Spraying will happen in the area bound by the following endpoints:
- Northern point: 300 block Mesquite and 700 block North 4th streets
- Southern point: 900 block Ben Richey Drive and 4700 block Boys Ranch Road
- Eastern point: 2100 block Westminster Drive and 1400 block Kingwood Circle
- Western point: 2200 block Oakwood Lane and 2220 block Hollis Drive
Even though the insecticide used by the City is EPA-approved, residents in the spraying area should avoid contact with the spray by staying inside. People inside vehicles while City trucks are actively spraying should remain in the vehicles with the windows up and air conditioners off until the trucks pass and the spray is no longer visible.
Residents should also keep animals inside until the fog has dissipated and the residue is dry.
Anyone who comes in contact with the spray is advised to wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water.
West Nile virus is a disease spread by the bite of an infected mosquito.
Residents are encouraged to follow the four Ds to best protect themselves from mosquito bites:
- Dress in long sleeves and pants when outside.
- Use insect repellent containing DEET.
- Drain standing water in your yard and neighborhood.
- Avoid being outdoors during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.