Zika Virus Disease: Symptoms & Prevention

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, Mosquito Focus is here to help.

What is the Zika Virus?

Zika is a disease caused by the Zika virus that is spread to people primarily through the bite of an infected mosquito of the Aedes species.

What can I do to prevent it?

While there is no cure for the Zika virus, avoiding mosquitoes is the best course of action for a strong defense. Here are some tips you should use in order to reduce the amount of mosquitos in your area:

  • Eliminate any sources of standing water, including outdoor containers such as flowerpots, tires or children’s toys
  • Unblock drains and gutters
  • Watch for low areas under decks or throughout yard where rainwater may collect
  • Avoid accumulating garbage or extra yard-clippings
  • Screen windows and doors
  • 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 around your home

Zika Resource Center

1280px-US_CDC_logo.svg The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) serves as your best resource for learning more about the Zika virus. Since Zika doesn’t currently have a cure, the best option to defend against it is knowledge. The more you can learn about Zika, the more prepared you can be. If you’re planning on traveling, be sure to look ahead and see if the location you’re going has had any cases of Zika by checking here.

 

 

The National Pest Management Association runs the website PestWorld.org, an online resource that educates about the risks associated with pests like mosquitos. A recent article on their site details the most important information about Zika and mosquitos.

 


The World Health Organization (WHO) has put together a Zika fact sheet that provides all the details you need about the virus, like signs and symptoms, ways the virus transmits and preventative measures.