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Mosquito Borne Illnesses
The Town of Westlake works with our neighboring communities, as well as, Denton and Tarrant County Health Departments to practice the counties' recommended mosquito borne illnesses prevention program measures. This proactive program combines public education, environmentally responsible mosquito abatement, and the use of larvicide briquettes, more commonly known as "mosquito dunks".
The Town provides free mosquito dunks to our residents upon request. Please contact Public Works at 817-490-5732 or publicworks@westlake-tx.org if you have any questions or would like to stop by Town Hall and pick up any mosquito dunks.
Mosquito Dunk FAQ
West Nile
West Nile Virus (WNV) is a potentially serious illness. Experts believe WNV is a seasonal epidemic of the summer months, just like influenza is to winter. West Nile Virus can be transmitted year-round whenever mosquitoes are biting, which is why it is best to protect yourself all year. Everyone is at risk of being affected by West Nile virus.
Residents can take control and stop West Nile Virus. Mosquitoes must have standing water in which to begin their life cycle. Almost any container or area of standing water presents a potential "mosquito nursery" in which eggs can be laid. Residents are encouraged to eliminate mosquito-breeding areas from their yards and community.
Press release from Tarrant County Public Health, June 19, 2019: Mosquito sample tests positive for West Nile virus.
Chikungunya
In April 2014, Tarrant County Public Health saw its first ever case of Chikungunya – a disease found locally in the Caribbean islands and Mexico. The individual contracted the disease from the bite of an infected mosquito while travelling outside of the United States. The person did not become symptomatic until they returned home to Tarrant County. Fortunately, there was no local spread of the disease in the area.
Texas Health & Human Services Chikungunya Information
Zika Virus
On February 3, 2016, the Texas Department of State Health Services reported the first case of the Zika virus disease contracted in Texas. As with West Nile virus, Westlake Public Works will work together with our neighboring communities, as well as, Denton and Tarrant county health departments to practice the counties' recommended Zika virus prevention measures.
Zika Virus Transmission & Prevention
Additional resources via Tarrant County's webpage
Denton County Press Release regarding Zika
Additional information via Denton County's webpage