The increase of flooding and heavy rain during the month of May also increased the opportunity for standing water and additional habitats for egg laying mosquitoes that can become potential carriers of viral disease: i.e. West Nile Virus (WNV) and St. Louise Encephalitis (SLV). The City of Arlington is urging residents to remain diligent in identifying and dumping standing water.

If standing water persist for long periods or is replenished by repeated rainfall, flooding or normal drainage patterns are altered by the effects of storm events, increased mosquito production may continue for several weeks or months. Containers that can hold an ounce or two of water can breed mosquitoes within a few days. Residents can help by eliminating standing water on their property.

Prevention Strategies:

DRAIN standing water in your yard and neighborhood where mosquitoes can breed. This includes old tires, flower pots, clogged rain gutters, etc. Mosquitoes may develop in any water stagnant for more than three or four days.

Dusk and dawn are the times of day you should try to stay indoors. This is when infected mosquitoes are most active.

Dress in long sleeves and pants when you are outside. For extra protection, you may want to spray thin clothing with repellant.

DEET is an ingredient to look for in your insect repellant. Follow label instructions, and always wear repellant when outdoors.