HOUSTON -- Part of Harris County will get an aerial spraying after officials find an increase of mosquitoes with West Nile virus, KPRC Local 2 reported.

The Harris County Public Health and Environmental Services' Mosquito Control Division scheduled the spraying of portions of northwest Harris County to begin after dusk Wednesday and end at about 4 a.m. Thursday.

They plan to spray the insecticide Dibrom over about 100,000 acres. Officials said Dibrom is considered to be safe for the environment, but some people may be sensitive to direct contact with the chemical.

To date, West Nile virus has been confirmed in 55 mosquitoes in Harris County.

"This year's mosquito season is unlike last year," said Dr. Rudy Bueno, director of HCPHES Mosquito Control. "Harris County is experiencing a very hot and dry year. This type of weather is conducive for increasing the risk of transmission of mosquito-borne diseases, such as West Nile virus."

All or portions of the following zip codes will be sprayed:

77014
77038
77040
77041
77064
77065
77066
77067
77068
77069
77086
77090
77375
77379
77429

West Nile Virus Symptoms In Humans

• Flu-like 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 and move air-conditioner drain hoses frequently.