Send Cities Taking Action Against West Nile Virus

Posted: 6:47 PM Jul 11, 2012
Reporter: Rashi Vats

The Brazos County Health Department is reporting another area of College Station has tested positive for the West Nile Virus. While they aren't doing anything to kill the problem, the city and Texas A&M University are taking some protective measures.

Many health departments’ plan of attack is by spraying, but Brazos County is not taking that measure.

"The health department doesn't spray because it is not effective for controlling the specific mosquito in this county,” said Dr. Mark Johnsen with the Brazos County Health Department. “It is also very labor intensive, and we do not have funds for that type of operation.”

But how effective is spraying? We went to Dr. Roger Gold who is a professor of Entomology at Texas A&M University.

"Spraying can be very effective in terms of reducing the biting of mosquitoes in the area where the spray has been applied. It is very difficult to apply enough spray to eliminate all mosquitoes. In fact it is not practical, but it gives you some relief,” said Dr. Gold.

After the health department reports a mosquito positive with the virus, the city of College Station will go out spray the area for a week. They also have mosquito dunks which residents can put in standstill water, like ponds, which will kill the mosquitoes.

Bryan does not spray concentrated areas, but they do offer mosquito dunks. It’s a product that Dr. Gold says will be handy since we've had some rain.

"In 10 days there will be more people being bitten by mosquitoes and biting flies because water is critical to the survival of a lot of the insects,” said Dr. Gold.

Experts say the best way to make sure you don't bitten is by wearing repellent with Deet.

To find out more about city services offered to help residents with mosquitoes call:

764-6262 College Station

209-5900 Bryan

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