The city of McKinney is taking measures to control mosquitoes after several pools tested positive for the West Nile Virus.
To address this public health concern, spraying will be conducted in four designated areas of the city. The spraying will occur between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m., depending on weather conditions, and will cover a one-mile radius around the locations of the positive mosquito pools.
The schedule for the spraying is as follows: On Oct. 7, the spraying will take place at 2001 S. Central Expressway. On Oct, 8, it will occur at 1101 E. Louisiana St. The following day, the targeted area will be 2996 W. Virginia Parkway, and finally, on Oct. 11, spraying will be done at 301 Peregrine Drive.
To keep residents informed, signs will be posted at major intersections to announce the spraying activity. Additionally, detailed information and a map of the spray areas will be made available on the city's website at McKinneyTexas.org/MosquitoControl.
In early September, the city found one mosquito pool with the West Nile Virus active, initiating a spray. Later in the month, the city sprayed two additional areas after more pools tested positive for the virus.
Residents living in the spray areas are advised to stay indoors during the spraying period and should bring their pets inside for the evening. Those who prefer to avoid spraying near their homes can contact the City of McKinney Health Compliance at 972-547-7447 for assistance.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), West Nile Virus is the most prevalent mosquito-borne disease in the United States, with activity peaking during the summer and fall. The CDC advises residents to take personal precautions, such as wearing long sleeves and pants during peak mosquito activity, using insect repellent and eliminating standing water where mosquitoes can breed.
Currently, there are no vaccines or specific treatments for West Nile Virus in humans. While most infected individuals do not exhibit symptoms, about 20% may experience mild symptoms such as fever, and approximately 1 in 150 cases can develop into severe, potentially life-threatening illness. Residents experiencing symptoms like high fever, severe headache, disorientation or neck stiffness are urged to seek immediate medical attention.
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