Mosquito Spraying

Mosquito spraying events are based on positive findings of West Nile virus or when the capture threshold is met in traps placed around the city, based on guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Once located, the area around the positive trap is targeted for spraying in an attempt to help limit the spread of disease.

Spraying is only one measure to help limit exposure, and the City of Irving urges people to maintain vigilance and protect themselves when going outside by following the Four D’s.

Spraying events are scheduled during overnight hours to limit exposure to people who may wish to avoid contact with the pesticide used to control mosquito populations. Spraying events usually begin at 10 or 11 p.m. with the goal of ending by 4 a.m., though they may run until 4:30 a.m. depending upon the size of the spray area.

The pesticide used during these spraying events degrades rapidly in the environment, and there is no accumulative or residual effect. However, for people concerned about exposure during aerial spraying, health officials suggest the following precautions:

• Minimize exposure. Avoid being outside, close windows and consider keeping pets inside while spraying occurs.
• If skin or clothes are exposed, wash them with soap and water.
• Rinse homegrown fruits and vegetables with water as a general precautionary measure.
• Cover small ornamental fish ponds.
• Because the chemical breaks down quickly in sunlight and water, no special precautions are suggested for outdoor swimming areas.

Irving's Mosquito Control Team Hits the Streets