Public Information Office 210 S. McDonald Street Suite 626 McKinney, Texas 75069 www.collincountytx.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 22, 2005

Second Collin County mosquito pool tests positive for West Nile Virus

(McKinney, TX) – A second mosquito pool has tested positive for West Nile Virus in Collin County this year. The second pool, located in the Branch area (the 75407 zip code), was tested by Collin County Development Services. The first West Nile Virus-positive mosquito pool was tested by the city of McKinney earlier this month.

Although no human cases have been detected in the county this year, work has been underway for months preparing for warmer temperatures and humid conditions, which often provide prime conditions for mosquitoes.

“It is so important to follow the Four D’s,” says Collin County nurse epidemiologist Janet Glowicz. Residents should drain all standing water; dress in light-colored, long sleeve clothing when outdoors; use a mosquito repellant that contains DEET; and stay indoors at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active. Residents should continue to follow these recommendations until the first freeze this fall.

Even the smallest amount of standing water can serve as a breeding ground for mosquitoes. This includes tires, bird baths and even pottery.

Residents may report standing water, illegal dumping and increased mosquito activity through the county’s West Nile Hotline, 972-548-5525.

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