Two-engine plane out of
Dynamic Aviation in Virginia
Greetings, my gracious blogmates! As you probably know, we are in the midst of a mosquito invasion here in the Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas area. And, I'm sure, in most states, some of the same is going on. However, our state of Texas seems to be the center of the 'West Nile' virus, that is carried by mosquitoes. They can actually contract the virus from other animals and birds!
This virus affects most folks over 50 years of age, and can cause high fevers, headaches and disorientation. There is no vaccine for this virus. More than 30,000 people have come down with the disease since the first reported case in 1999. And, so far, it has resulted in 14 deaths in Dallas, with at least 200 people affected.
The Mayor of Dallas has declared the city in a State of Emergency, and Dallas' county Judge Clay Jenkins has commissioned planes from Dynamic Aviation of Virginia to spray for these deadly invaders. The decision came about after consulting with health officials and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. There has been some conflict from some Dallas citizens, citing that the pesticides could be toxic to citizens, animals and plant life. But, county Judge Jenkins declares that the pesticide known as 'Duet' will be used, and, is considered safe, as it has been used successfully in other communities in the United States. Duet was developed in 1988 by Clarke out of Chicago. Aerial spraying is common in Florida, Louisiana, New Jersey, Georgia, North Carolina, Michigan and Minnesota. The Judge says that after the aerial spraying, the odds of infection will be 6 times lower. And, the last time aerial spraying was used in Texas, Lyndon Johnson was in office as President of the United States.
Well, two of the planes arrived on Thursday, scheduled to begin their plight on Friday nite. I believe another 2 planes have since arrived. Above is a photo of one of these planes. Generally, 2-engine planes are certified for aerial spraying to fly over cities, in the event of engine failure, to aid in safe landings. That is one good looking plane, don't you think?
As, for Fort Worth...well, no aerial spraying is planned at this time. Doesn't mean we don't have those varmints tho!!! That lady over at MyTexasGardens has to wear flannel pants to go out and water plants, and-she puts a little cotton in her ears to keep them out!
Can't stand the buzzing, eh?
So, promise me that you'll spray yourselves...I know, I know-the spray is costly (highway robbery!) But, you can brave the heat and wear long sleeves, long pants, gloves, and....yes, put some cotton in your ears to ward them off.
***
We've had our grandson 'Scootie' this past week, and, he has cabin fever because we're keeping him inside as much as possible. So, we bought some puzzles to occupy him with.
ABC Puzzle * photo taken August 14, 2012
And a little balloon time!
Thank you so much for your visit. I appreciate all the visits and wonderful comments received by you...I always look forward to hearing from you.
P.S. I have not posted any photos of real mosquitoes...
...you can just step outside!
Please let me thank:
Yahoo
Google
"What is the difference between a mosquito and a fly?"
"Try sewing buttons on a mosquito!"
'au revoir, mes amies!'
