As if the risk of contracting encephalitis or West Nile Virus isn’t enough, now, a single mosquito bite could give you the newest scary disease – the Zika Virus. This virus, originally discovered in tropical areas of the world such as Africa and the Pacific Islands, has found its way into the United States. It is transmitted easily and causes severe symptoms, especially in the unborn. While this is quite disconcerting, don’t worry. Consolidated Pest Control has an arsenal at the ready to defend your backyard against the disease carrying mosquitoes that threaten to ruin your good time.
Here are a few things you need to know about the Zika virus.
- The spread of Zika – The Zika virus spreads mostly through the bite of an infected mosquito, although there are some reports it spreads through sexual intercourse as well. Only a certain type of mosquito can become infected with Zika, and they are found in the United States. However, according to the CDC, Zika has not spread through mosquito bite in the US as of yet, but it has found its way here by way of infected travelers.
- The Zika Virus and the unborn – Although more research is needed, there is some evidence that pregnant women infected with the Zika virus can pass it on to their unborn child. Some reports claim a link between Zika infection during pregnancy and a brain disorder called microcephaly. Microcephaly causes the fetus’s head to be smaller than normal. The Centers for Disease Control says the best course of action for pregnant women is to practice mosquito bite prevention. Furthermore, pregnant women should avoid traveling to parts of the world known to be affected by Zika virus outbreaks.
- Infected travelers and the Zika virus spread – Travelers who are infected with the Zika virus and returning to the United States spread the virus in the first week of infection. During that time, the virus is found in their blood, and it passes to a mosquito when it bites. If the mosquito lives long enough, the virus multiplies and passes on to another person who gets bitten by the infected mosquito.
Mosquitoes are pesky insects that carry some pretty scary diseases. Preventing their bite and eliminating them from your outdoor areas is the best way to avoid contracting the Zika virus and other serious illnesses. Don’t let mosquito season keep you indoors and under wraps. Contact us today to fight the mosquito population on your Florida property and begin enjoying your backyard once again.
