With West Nile Virus cases -- and deaths -- jumping in Texas, residents are apparently reaching out to 911 instead of reaching for the bug spray. KRLD-TV reports authorities are warning Texans to stop clogging up the emergency numbers -- and forcing ambulances to deploy to the scene -- when the critters come biting.

Matt Zavadsky with MedStar Emergency Medical Services tells the affiliate, "We understand people's concerns regarding the West Nile Virus, but in the absence of any symptoms of West Nile then a simple mosquito bite is really not a reason for someone to call..." He says residents would be better served wearing long sleeves and pants and using bug repellent to prevent bites instead of overreacting afterward.

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