Fight The Bite and Blight: Mosquito Prevention in Dallas

For the City of Dallas, safeguarding our community from mosquito-borne diseases is a top priority. The City of Dallas is dedicated to proactive mosquito management, including regular monitoring, testing, and control measures.  

What the City is Doing 

1. Monitoring, Testing, and Abating: 

Each week during peak mosquito season, Dallas Code Compliance Services collects and tests mosquitoes to track and prevent the spread of diseases. 

Dallas Code Compliance staff actively identify, report, and work to eliminate illegal dumping sites, which can harbor mosquitoes, particularly in areas with discarded tires. 

2. Mosquito Control Activities: 

To combat mosquito populations, we: 

• Monitor Known Breeding Sites: We keep a close eye on areas where mosquitoes are likely to breed. 

• Apply Larvicide: This helps to prevent mosquito larvae from maturing into adult mosquitoes. 

• Stock Gambusia: These small fish, also known as mosquito fish, are introduced into standing water to naturally reduce mosquito larvae. 

For the latest updates on mosquito spraying schedules for 2024, click here. This link will provide real-time information on spraying activities across the city. 

3. Responding to Disease Reports: 

If mosquitoes or humans test positive for mosquito-borne diseases, our Mosquito Control Plan is activated. This may include adult mosquito spraying to reduce the risk of disease transmission. 

How You Can Help 

Most mosquitoes are bred right in our own backyards. They need standing water to reproduce, and can complete their life cycle from egg to adult in just 7-10 days. Here’s how you can help prevent their breeding: 

• Inspect Your Property: Regularly check for stagnant water in places like garbage cans, birdbaths, toys, flowerpot saucers, and clogged gutters. 

• Eliminate Standing Water: Remove any puddles caused by leaking faucets, pipes, or air conditioner condensation. 

• Dispose of Debris Properly: Illegal dumping sites and discarded tires are prime mosquito breeding grounds. 

Report Illegal Dumping: If you spot illegal dumping sites, please report them to us. You can do so by calling 311 or using the Dallas 311 app. Code Compliance Services works hard to address these issues, but your help is crucial. 

Stay Informed 

For more details on the City’s efforts to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses, click here. 

By working together, we can keep Dallas safe from mosquito-borne diseases. Thank you for playing your part in our community’s health and safety! 

Remember the Four D’s to Stay Safe 

• DRAIN: 

Drain or treat all standing water around your home or workplace. Check swimming pools, ponds, pet dishes, birdbaths, potted plants, old tires, empty containers, toys, and clogged rain gutters for stagnant water. 

• DUSK/DAWN: 

Limit outdoor activities during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active. The mosquito that carries the Zika Virus is active during the daytime, so be sure to protect yourself throughout the day. 

• DRESS: 

Wear long, loose, and light-colored clothing when spending time outdoors to reduce mosquito bites. 

• DEET All Day, Every Day: 

Use insect repellents containing DEET or other EPA-approved ingredients whenever you’re outside. Always follow the product instructions for safe and effective use. 

Understanding Mosquito-Borne Diseases 

• West Nile Virus (WNV): 

WNV is most commonly transmitted to humans by mosquitoes. There are no specific medications or vaccines for WNV. Most people with WNV experience no symptoms, but some may develop a fever or, in rare cases, a serious neurological illness. 

• Zika Virus: 

Zika is primarily spread through mosquito bites but can also be transmitted sexually. Symptoms include fever, rash, joint pain, and red eyes. While local transmission has not been reported in Dallas County, it’s crucial to protect yourself, especially if traveling to areas with active Zika virus transmission. 

• Chikungunya Virus: 

Chikungunya causes fever and joint pain and has been reported in parts of Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas. There is no vaccine or specific treatment for Chikungunya, so preventing mosquito bites is essential. 

• Dengue Virus: 

Dengue, prevalent in the tropics and subtropics, is transmitted by mosquitoes and can cause severe flu-like symptoms. There is no vaccine currently available, so the best protection is avoiding mosquito bites. 

Additional Resources 

To ensure your home isn’t a mosquito breeding ground, use our Homeowner’s Mosquito Control Checklist for practical tips and guidance. 

By staying informed and taking these preventive measures, we can all contribute to a safer, healthier Dallas. Thank you for helping to keep our community mosquito-free!