The Zika virus is a serious disease that is spread primarily through mosquito bites. While there is no vaccine to prevent Zika virus, you can protect yourself and your family by understanding how it is transmitted and taking some simple steps to avoid it.
Transmission
Like the dengue and chikungunya viruses, the Zika virus is most commonly spread through mosquito bites. The mosquitoes that spread the virus typically bite humans during the daytime, so you should take extra precautions when enjoying the outdoors in an area where the virus has spread.
Pregnancy and Zika
When a pregnant woman is infected with the Zika virus, it may linger in the blood for months longer than it would in another person. Infected pregnant women can transmit the virus to the fetus, which can to serious birth defects. It is believed the Zika virus may be linked to microcephaly, a serious and often fatal condition which causes an infant’s head to develop much smaller than expected.
Preventative Measures
Wear insect repellant whenever possible when staying outdoors in an area that is known to have the virus. Pregnant women can safely use EPA-registered insect repellent that is applied properly and over the clothing. Always apply sunscreen underneath insect repellent or it may not successfully repel mosquitoes. You should also wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants to prevent mosquitoes from biting and transmitting the virus.
Children under the age of two months who can’t wear insect repellant should be dressed in clothing that covers the arms and legs. When applying insect repellant to older children, first spray the product on your hands and then apply it to the skin. Always cover strollers and cribs with mosquito netting to keep infants and toddlers safe.
Air-conditioned places with screens on the doors and windows are ideal. If you are camping or sleeping in an open area, a mosquito net can help protect you from mosquito bites. When enjoying the outdoors, especially in areas near water where mosquitoes tend to congregate, treat your gear with permethrin to discourage mosquitoes from visiting your site. A combination of EPA-approved sprays and mosquito netting can help protect your family from bites.
In addition to these strategies, working with the professionals at Preventive Pest Control is one of the best ways you can keep mosquitoes away from your home and prevent the spread of the Zika virus. Mosquito populations thrive as the weather grows warmer, so treating your yard is an important preventive step. Treating your home and yard puts an end to annoying and painful mosquito bites and gives you the peace of mind you need to enjoy your outside space without having to worry about the diseases they transmit.
Worried about mosquitoes in your area? Call Preventive Pest Control today for fast and reliable Houston mosquito control.