Rockwall ISD is taking proactive steps to protect students and staff from the West Nile Virus. Maintenance staff members are conducting site reviews of all campuses and removing any standing water. In addition, all vegetation and tall grass is being kept to a minimum.

Outdoor practices for extra-curricular activities such as athletics, band, or drill team are being conducted in open areas on pavement, short grass or dirt. These areas are generally less conducive for mosquitoes.

According to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) and Centers for Disease control and Prevention (CDC), the best defense against West Nile Virus is to remember the 4-Ds of personal prevention:

• DEET – Use insect repellents that contain DEET, or any other EPA-approved insect repellent. Parents may wish to apply a DEET-containing repellent prior to school and before evening outdoor events.
• DRESS – Wear long, loose and light-colored clothing outside during dusk and dawn hours.
• DRAIN – We are actively searching and draining any areas with standing water, and reducing mosquito resting sites (tall grasses and weeds) on school property.
• DUSK/DAWN – Protect yourself during dusk and dawn hours.

The safety of our students and staff is always a primary concern for Rockwall ISD. We will continue to monitor this situation on a daily basis.