The primary focus of the City of Arlington is on public education/information and prevention. Identifying, reporting and responding to confirmed cases involves the coordination of Texas Department of State Health Services, Tarrant County Public Health and the City of Arlington.

Disposing of Dead Birds

The City of Arlington will no longer collect or accept dead birds for testing. If you find a dead bird on your property, please dispose of it by placing it in the garbage. Although, the Texas Department of State Health Services previously determined the West Nile Virus can be present in dead birds, there is no evidence the virus can be spread by contact with it. It is recommended you wear gloves when disposing of the bird and wash your hands with soap and water afterward.

Spraying of Mosquitoes

Spraying or adulticide isn't the first line of defense against mosquitoes in Arlington, because for a number of years now, health authorities have concurred it is a less effective means of protection against mosquito-borne illness. However, if the problem does progress and there is a need for mitigation beyond surveillance and larvacide, the City of Arlington is prepared to move ahead with a spraying plan.

In accordance with the Centers for Disease Control's guidelines, which specify mosquito spraying is most effective when it is targeted and strategic in nature, the City may consider spraying in an area which meets the following criteria:

• A cluster of human West Nile Virus cases and,
• Positive West Nile Virus mosquito sampling in a targeted area
• Concurrent larvacide treatment

The City will continue to provide a variety of information concerning West Nile Virus, which you may share with family, friends and other groups in your neighborhood. Public education is the focus of the City of Arlington's West Nile Virus effort. We need your help in spreading the word.

For more information on West Nile Virus, call 817-459-6777, the Texas Department of State Health Services at 514-458-7255 or visit www.dshs.state.tx.us.