Vigilance urged after West Nile virus discovery

The Texas Department of State Health Services has confirmed that a sample of mosquitoes from a surveillance site in The Woodlands Township and South Montgomery County area has tested positive for West Nile virus.

Because of this West Nile confirmation, protocols will be undertaken that include larvicide spraying of select storm drains and targeted street spraying. Surveillance will also be conducted.

No reports of human illness have been reported at this time in Montgomery County. Residents are still urged to protect themselves and their families from mosquito bites.

Property owners can decrease the number of mosquitoes by monitoring and eliminating all sources of standing water. Such sources can include French drains, water meter boxes, bird baths and plant saucers. Lawn and garden over-watering should be avoided to control runoff and pooling.

Despite the recent lack of rain, mosquitoes are still active. “Field observations confirm that water from irrigation runoff feeds stagnant puddles in storm drains and low areas, creating breeding sites for mosquitoes,” said Lynne Aldrich, manager of environmental services for The Woodlands Township.

The Department of State Health Services recommends that residents stay indoors as much as possible from dusk to dawn, when mosquitoes are most active. If you must be outside, wear long, loose, light-colored clothing and use a repellent.

For more information, call 281-210-3800 or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.