DCHHS Reminds Citizens to Use the 4Ds to Prevent Exposure to Mosquitoes Draining or Treating Standing Water is Important

Draining or Treating Standing Water is Important

DALLAS (May 22, 2015) –Dallas County Health and Human Services (DCHHS) is reminding citizens to use the 4Ds to prevent exposure to mosquitoes. DCHHS urges Dallas County residents to drain or treat standing water.

Standing water can be treated with EPA-approved larvicides that are available for retail purchase. Larvicides are products used to kill immature mosquitoes before they become adults. Larvicides are applied directly to water sources that hold mosquito eggs, larvae, or pupae. When used well, larvicides can help reduce the overall mosquito burden by limiting the number of mosquitoes that are produced, according to the Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention.

“Now that our lab has confirmed the first positive West Nile Virus mosquito trap of 2015, we know that the virus is here,” said Zachary Thompson, DCHHS director. “Dallas County residents must remember the 4Ds for protection against mosquito bites.”

DEET All Day, Every Day: Whenever you’re outside, use insect repellents that contain DEET or other EPA approved repellents and follow instructions.

Dress: Wear long, loose, and light-colored clothing outside.

Drain: Drain or treat all standing water in and around your home or workplace.

Dusk & Dawn: Limit outdoor activities during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

“We strongly encourage citizens to remember to protect themselves and their loved ones,” said Dr. Christopher Perkins, DCHHS medical director/health authority. “Stopping mosquitoes where they breed by draining or treating standing water is especially crucial, but residents should adhere to all protection recommendations.”

More information can be found about mosquito prevention on the DCHHS website.