Due to the humidity and the hot climate, Alabama is a breeding ground for mosquitoes. While the bites may be annoying, this year carries additional risks for mosquito-borne illnesses. Last year, Brazil had an outbreak of the Zika virus, which is spread by mosquitoes. According to the World Health Organization, Zika is expected to spread throughout the United States and the Americas during 2016. Warmer climates are expected to be hard hit by the viruses as mosquitoes transfer Zika from person to person.
For the average person, Zika will be similar to the common cold. Symptoms are often minor and may even be unnoticeable depending on the person. Unfortunately, Zika has also been linked to Guillain–Barré syndrome. Known for causing paralysis, this condition can also be fatal. For pregnant women, Zika carries extra risks because it can lead to microcephaly in the fetus. Microcephaly can cause an unusually small head in infants, and it can cause a premature death for the fetus. There is no way to cure or vaccinate against the Zika virus, which makes it especially dangerous.
Limiting the Spread of Zika
Since there is no treatment for the Zika virus, the only thing that individuals can do is stop it from being spread. Mosquitoes are the primary transmission source. The specific species of mosquitoes that spreads the virus operates primarily during the daytime, although they can bite at night as well.
Preventing mosquitoes from breeding is a key way to stop the transmission of the virus. Residents in Alabama should remove sources of standing water like water bowls, pails and barrels of water. In addition, mosquito sprays and pesticides can help to kill the mosquitoes in the area. Through MosquitoNix, you can kill mosquitoes around your home and prevent them from breeding. We use a three-step system to kill mosquitoes so that your home can enjoy an added level of protection against the Zika virus.
In addition to spraying for mosquitoes, there are a few prevention techniques that you can use.
- Treat clothes and other items with permethrin
- Wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts
- Use mosquito repellent on clothes
- Turn on the air conditioning
- Use a mosquito net, window screens and door screens
- Eliminate standing water sources
- Spray and treat the property for mosquitoes
- Use mosquito netting around kids’ items like strollers or cribs
While Zika can spread through sexual contact, the primary transmission source is from mosquito bites. Due to this, the best way to avoid contracting Zika is through prevention. If you do become infected, avoid being bitten by mosquitoes again because it can cause the virus to spread to someone else.
To keep your family safe from the Zika virus and prevent birth defects in unborn children, you need to treat your property for mosquitoes. MosquitoNix is experienced in mosquito control, and our staff members are available for property evaluations and treatments. We use a three-step approach to remove mosquitoes from your yard and keep them from breeding. To remove the mosquitoes from your property, contact us today.
