The City of Keller has been notified by the Tarrant County Public Health Department that two Keller residents have been diagnosed with the West Nile virus. To reduce the spread of West Nile virus the City of Keller participates in the Tarrant County West Nile Virus Mosquito Monitoring Program. Samples of mosquitoes from pooled water in Keller are being collected and will be tested by Tarrant County Public Health
West Nile virus can affect anyone; however, people age 50 and older are at a higher risk of developing a severe West Nile virus infection. Symptoms include flu-like illness, with moderate to high fever (102 degrees or more), severe headache, severe muscle ache or joint pain, severe eye pain, mental changes, fatigue, nausea and respiratory symptoms. People with symptoms should check with their physician for evaluation and treatment. For information about the West Nile Virus, visit the Tarrant County Public Health page (PDF).
Keller Environmental Services responds to all complaints about mosquitoes by conducting site investigations, creek and pond inspections, and by notifying surrounding home owners. Environmental Services also routinely checks creeks, ponds and swimming pools throughout the City for water that has the potential for the breeding of mosquitoes. Any stagnant water that is found is treated with a mosquito larvicide that is not harmful to humans, beneficial aquatic life, or other animals that might drink the treated water. View the City’s Mosquito Control Program Web page.
Residents are encouraged to help in mosquito abatement by checking that ponds and drainage channels are not stagnant and items such as wheelbarrows, play pools, swimming pools, bird baths, yard toys and other places water collects are emptied or drained. To prevent mosquito bites, residents are urged to follow the four Ds:
Dusk and dawn are the times of day you should try to stay indoors. This is when mosquitoes are most active.
Dress in long sleeves and pants when you’re outside. For extra protection, you may want to spray thin clothing with repellent.
DEET is an ingredient to look for in your insect repellent. Always wear repellent when outdoors and choose products that contain up to 20 percent DEET. Carefully follow product instructions, especially when using repellants on children.
Draining water standing in your yard and neighborhood is the most effective way to control mosquitoes.
The City of Keller is committed to protecting the health and safety of its citizens, please report any increase in mosquito population by contacting Environmental Services at 817-743-4092 or by e-mail at environmentalservices@cityofkeller.com.
