HOUSTON -- Aerial spraying for mosquitoes has been scheduled for parts of northeast and northwest Harris County, KPRC Local 2 reported Tuesday.

Harris County Public Health and Environmental Services officials said the spraying will begin after dark on Tuesday and last until 4 a.m. The operation was expected to take two days.

Officials said they hope to spray about 200,000 acres. Aerial spraying is being used because of limited road accessibility in the area, officials said.

Recent findings indicate that cases of West Nile virus have increased. West Nile virus has been confirmed in 37 mosquito samples and 48 dead birds.

West Nile Virus Symptoms In Humans

• Flulike illness, with moderate to high fever
• Headache
• Muscle weakness or joint pain
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Possible seizures
• Paralysis
• Respiratory symptoms

West Nile Virus Symptoms In Animals

• Loss of appetite
• Depression
• Fever
• Weakness
• Convulsions

To help eliminate mosquito-breeding sites and prevent mosquito-borne diseases, residents should do the following:

Wear long pants and long-sleeve shirts when outdoors, particularly at dawn and dusk.
Use insect repellent that contains DEET. Children should use insect repellents that contain less than 10 percent DEET. Do not apply DEET on babies. Adults should use insect repellents that contain more than 10 percent DEET.
Make sure screens on windows and doors are in good condition.
Keep the storm sewers clean to reduce mosquito breeding.
Sweep up lawn clippings, leaves and limbs from sidewalks, driveways, curbs and gutters.
Don't let lawn water or car washing water enter the street.
Pick up litter and other debris from the yard and the street.
Keep mosquitoes out of the house.
Keep doors and windows closed.
Seal cracks and gaps in the house.
If mosquitoes are in the house, use flying insect spray, following label instructions.
Empty, remove or dispose of anything in the yard that can hold water: flower pot saucers, cans, toys, litter, rain barrels, plastic sheeting, etc.
Pet water bowls and birdbaths should be emptied and refilled at least twice a week.
Keep rain gutters on the house clean and properly draining.
Repair household water leaks, move air conditioner drain hose frequently.
Report water and sewer main leaks and breaks to 311.

More Information:

Centers For Disease Control and Prevention: West Nile Virus
Harris County Mosquito Control Division