The City of Allen will enhance its mosquito prevention and abatement efforts after two Allen residents tested positive for West Nile Virus.
The Collin County Health Department recently reported human cases of West Nile Virus in several Collin County cities, including Plano and McKinney.
The City of Allen follows a written Integrated Mosquito Management program which includes public education, mosquito trapping and testing, reduction of standing water and mosquito abatement. Actions include larvacide treatments using biodegradable mosquito “dunks” in ponds and other water sources designed to reduce mosquito populations at the breeding stage.
The City is installing additional mosquito traps throughout the community to allow for more widespread testing and will continue actively treating over 50 locations around the city that are the most conducive for mosquito breeding.
Residents are encouraged to be vigilant in eliminating all outdoor sources of standing water and to take safety precautions when outside early morning and at dusk when mosquitoes are most active. The most effective way to prevent West Nile is to follow the precautions known as the “Five D’s.”
• Drain any standing water on your property. To report areas of stagnant water, call 214.509.4160.
• Use insect repellent containing DEET
• Dress in light-colored long-sleeved shirts and long pants when you are outside.
• Avoid dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.
• Keep doors and windows closed to keep mosquitoes from entering your home.