Mixed Concerns Over West Nile Virus in Arlington

More cases in Arlington than other Tarrant County cities

Despite Arlington's 21 confirmed cases of West Nile virus, few are overly concerned about mosquito bites.

"Everybody is outside, but nobody seems to be too concerned about it," Jack Pullar said about his neighborhood.

"I'm outdoors a lot, but I don't have a lot of concern [about mosquitos]," Rick Logan said.

Arlington has more confirmed West Nile virus cases than any other Tarrant County city -- something that really bites Jeffery Nowell.

Nowell, a self-described regular victim of mosquito bites, has gone through more cans of bug spray this summer than ever before.

"If I hadn't been worrying about it, I guess I wouldn't wear any bug spray," he said. "I don't like to get bit. It's irritating, and the fact that something that irritating could be followed up with a virus, well, I guess I've got to take precautions."

The city of Arlington continues to survey and use larvacide.

Though officials say they're prepared to spray, it's often a last resort because health officials claim it can be less than effective, the city said.

In light of the recent increase in West Nile virus cases -- which jumped from two at the beginning of July -- Arlington is considering further steps, though it has not said what steps.

Until then, the city urges residents to be the first line of defense.

"I think everybody in the neighborhood realizes that standing water and trees and shrubbery can be a problem, so everybody sprays pretty diligently," Pullar said.

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