Abilene Confirms Mosquitos Test Positive for West Nile

ABILENE – Over the weekend, the City of Abilene confirmed it would be spraying for mosquitos after tests revealed mosquitos in the area had tested positive for West Nile Virus.

According to officials, residents in the 79602 zip code will see their area sprayed on Monday and Tuesday of this week between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.

"Studies continually prove the most effective means of preventing mosquito-borne illness is to prevent mosquito breeding," said the city in a statement. "The City of Abilene Environmental Health department uses a phased response approach to mosquito treatment which limits the spraying of insecticide to when mosquito borne illness is detected through routine surveillance. This practice also works best to protect beneficial insects and wildlife in our area."

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

While the insecticide used by the city is approved by the EPA, residents are advised to stay indoors while the spraying occurs.

Individuals inside their vehicles should remain inside their vehicles with the air conditioner off as workers spray until the spray is no longer visible.

Pets should be kept indoors until the fog has dissipated and the residue is dry. 

Residents who come in contact with the spray are advised to wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water.

Spraying will occur between the 500 block of Chestnut St., the 300 block of ES 27th St., the 3800 block of S. Treadaway Blvd., and the 2100 block of S 24th St.