A sampling of mosquitoes in Cedar Park has tested positive for the West Nile Virus, the city said in a statement Tuesday.
According to the City of Cedar Park, the mosquitoes were collected from one of six trap locations in Cedar Park. This particular sampling came from a trap in southwest Cedar Park near the intersection of Cypress Creek Road and Sun Chase Boulevard. The City said there are currently no reported human cases of the virus in Cedar Park and that Williamson County has seen no reported cases since last fall.
"Especially in light of the positive test sample’s proximity to summertime outdoor activity at Veterans Memorial Park and in several nearby neighborhoods, the City and Health District are encouraging everyone to be especially vigilant about protecting themselves from mosquito bites when outdoors – and preventing mosquito breeding on their personal property," the city said in the statement.
The city is asking residents to follow 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. Treat water that can’t be drained
-Defend by using an EPA-approved insect repellent
-Dress in long sleeves and pants when outdoors
The city said that the Parks and Recreation Department uses tablts on public property to treat any standing water that can't be drained. They said it is harmless to people and most pets.
You can report stagnant water on public or private property to the city's Code Enforcement Division here.
For more information on mosquito safety, go here.
