News about Zika virus in the United States and around the world is spreading rapidly along with a concern for safety. It is more important than ever to understand the facts, preventative steps you can take to protect yourself and your family, and what role mosquito control services can play. News like this can be overwhelming and scary, but with help from the CDC, Last Bite Mosquito and Tick Control is here to help.
The news of Zika virus, a disease causing pathogen spread to humans through mosquito bites, being found in the U.S. is quickly gaining momentum and receiving national attention from the media as human cases are being confirmed in states across the country, including FL, TX, NY, NJ and more.
In addition to the illness associated with the virus, there is great concern about the virus’ potential effect in pregnant women as there is mounting evidence of a link to microcephaly, a congenital condition associated with incomplete brain development in infants.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued travel alerts for people planning to travel to countries and territories (in the Americas) with active Zika virus transmission. The CDC and the World Health Organization (WHO) have come out in force to promote public attention to this matter and in a statement from the White House, “The President emphasized the need to accelerate research efforts to make available better diagnostic tests, to develop vaccines and therapeutics, and to ensure that all Americans have information about the Zika virus.”
- Keep gutters clear so they will drain properly
- Check and empty:
- Children’s toys
- Untreated swimming pools
- Uncovered boats/watercrafts that are not draining water
- Trash cans and lids
- Watch for low areas under decks or throughout yard where rainwater may collect
- Avoid accumulating garbage or extra yard-clippings
- Use mosquito repellant and reapply as directed
- Wear protective clothing such as long pants and long sleeves
- Limit outdoor exposure. Mosquitoes that spread Zika virus bite mostly during the daytime.
***Enlist a professional mosquito control service like Last Bite Mosquito Control
