Dallas to Enhance Mosquito Surveillance Efforts Ahead of World Cup

Dallas County Health and Human Services released its most recent mosquito control statistics this week. It also announced that it will enhance surveillance efforts ahead of the FIFA World Cup events being held in North Texas later this summer.

The county released the information along with its April environmental health newsletter. According to the report, the Dallas County Mosquito Control (DCMC) deployed 225 mosquito traps between Jan. 1 and March 31. During that time, the team identified 165 mosquito traps and collected 222 mosquito traps.

With North Texas hosting FIFA World Cup events in June and July, the newsletter notes, there is an increased risk of non-endemic mosquito-borne diseases related to global travel.

In response, the DCMC, in partnership with the Texas Department of State Health Services Public Health Laboratory, will enhance surveillance efforts by monitoring these risks and testing local Aedes mosquito species for Chikungunya, Dengue, and Zika viruses.

According to the newsletter, the additional testing will not impact the ongoing surveillance and control measures of the West Nile Virus program.

"No matter the mosquito-borne disease, we encourage everyone to follow the '4 D's' to reduce mosquito bites," the newsletter states.

The 4 Ds

DEET: Use an EPA-approved bug repellent that contains the active ingredient DEET any time you're outside.

DRESS: Wear long, loose, and light-colored clothing when you're outside. That's because mosquitos look for exposed skin and are more attracted to dark clothing. Don't put bug spray on your clothes.

DRAIN: Make sure to remove all standing water in and around your home. That is where mosquitos breed and larvae develop. Bird baths and ponds should be cleaned and maintained. Drain any area that collects water, like gutters and storm drains.

DUSK & DAWN: Try to limit outdoor activities during the dusk and dawn hours when mosquitos are at their most active. Make sure window screens and screen doors are in good repair.