As Mosquito Population Continues to Surge, Prevention Efforts Underway

As mosquito populations in Amarillo continue to surge, prevention efforts are still underway by the City of Amarillo.

In 2016, the City of Amarillo launched Mission Mosquito. Mission Mosquito was a grant funded program that was operated by the City to prevent the Zika virus. While Mission Mosquito is no longer active, mosquito prevention tools are continuing.

According to a spokesperson, the City of Amarillo is still encouraging residents to follow mosquito prevention tips. Residents are encouraged to follow the four "D's" of mosquito prevention. The four "D's" are:

• Drain all standing water

• Dress in long sleeves and pants

• DEET: wear insect repellent with DEET

• Daily: All day, every day

City staff are also continuing vector control in the area. Vector control comes in two forms by the City: spraying standing water and fogging. According to Jesse Patton, City of Amarillo spokesperson, the City prefers spraying standing water because it is more effective than fogging the air.

Mosquitoes with West Nile virus are expected to begin appearing about an hour until dusk each night. The City recommends that residents stay indoors during this time and limit activity outside.