A sampling from a mosquito trap in Cedar Park has tested positive for West Nile Virus. Officials say the positive test was indicated in a lab result from the Texas Department of State Health Services lab in Austin.
The Williams County and Cities Health District has six traps at various locations in Cedar Park. The species that tested positive is Culex quinquefasciatus (southern house mosquito). It was collected in southwest Cedar Park, near the intersection of Cypress Creek Road and Sun Chase Boulevard. This species has a flight range of about one mile.
Officials say at this time they are calling for enhanced monitoring and testing and increasing public outreach and education. They say they will take additional action if necessary.
Due to the positive test sample's proximity to Milburn Park officials ask everyone to be vigilant about protecting themselves from mosquito bites and preventing mosquito breeding on their property.
Officials say mosquitoes breed in standing or stagnant water and eliminating places where mosquitoes can breed and reducing the chances of mosquito bites are the most effective lines of defense against exposure to West Nile Virus.
As part of its Fight the Bite campaign the Health District recommends the 3 Ds of mosquito safety.
- Drain standing water in flower pots, pet dishes or clogged gutters so mosquitoes don’t have a place to breed and treat water that can’t be drained,
- Defend by using an EPA-approved insect repellent, and
- Dress in long sleeves and pants when outdoors.
For more information about what officials use for mosquito abatement and mosquito safety you can go the Health District's website here.