FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: (Friday, July 27, 2012)
[Dallas County Office of Homeland Security requests state assistance for West Nile Virus]

[Dallas, TX] – [Today, the Dallas County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (OHSEM) filed a formal request for state assistance from the Texas Department of Health and Human Services in Dallas County's escalating fight against West Nile Virus. Dallas County Health and Human Services (HHS) has waged an aggressive campaign against the deadly disease and has requested resources from the state as conditions remain ripe for more mosquito carriers of the virus and further human infection.]

Judge Clay Jenkins says “I commend the work done by DCHHS and the many dedicated Dallas County employees who have worked tirelessly to reduce the risk of infection and educate the public on important safety precautions.
We need your help.” HHS urges citizens to use the 3 D’s to defend against the virus:

FIGHT THE BITES

• DEET – use insect repellents that contain Deet, or any other FDA approved insect repellent.
• DRESS – Wear long, loose and light-colored clothing outside during dusk and dawn hours.
• DRAIN – Remove all areas of standing water. Change water in wading pools, pet dishes and birdbaths several times a week.

Among the many precautions HHS has taken in the protection of residents is their ongoing testing for mosquito pools throughout Dallas County. HHS’s West Nile Newsletter gives citizens a list of cities and their corresponding zip codes where mosquito pools have tested positive. For more information go to: West Nile Watch.

Contact Information: Judge Clay Jenkins
214.653.7949
Clay.jenkins@dallascounty.org

Maria Arita, PIO
214.653.7150
Maria.arita@dallascounty.org