Frightening stories of babies born with birth defects after the mother was infected with Zika virus have been circulating the globe for months now. The arrival of the virus in the United States from South America has caused increased interest from American families regarding the potential to catch the disease.
While Zika isn’t yet carried by mosquitoes in the United States, several hundreds of people have brought the virus home to the U.S, and the type of mosquitoes capable of carrying the virus have been found in North America. Since there are more than 100 different types of mosquitoes in Texas, there is the possibility that the mosquitoes in your yard may or may not be the type that could carry Zika.
What Do I Need to Know About Zika?
As of now, there is no vaccine that exists to prevent the Zika virus. The best way to prevent the spread of Zika is to avoid the areas that have been stricken by the virus and avoid mosquito bites altogether. However, doing so isn’t always easy when you live in an area like Dallas/Ft. Worth that is popular for mosquitoes.
According to the CDC, the mosquitoes that spread Zika do have a habit that may help you create an effective method for preventing the spread of the virus. The CDC says,
“Mosquitoes that spread Zika virus bite mostly during the daytime.”
Since most of us have work, school, and other various appointments during the day, it’s tough to avoid going outside during the daytime. However, arranging outside playtime and exercise in the evening may help you avoid getting bitten by a mosquito that carries Zika.
Know The Symptoms of Zika
Unfortunately, not everyone who contracts Zika shows symptoms. According to doctors, many of the symptoms you may experience with Zika are similar to Dengue Fever, which is also transmitted by mosquitoes.
Some Zika symptoms include:
- Fever
- Joint pain
- Rash
- Red eyes
Treating the virus usually includes a recovery regimen that is much like how you might treat the flu. The doctors instruct sufferers to take acetaminophen (Tylenol) but advise against aspirin or other NSAIDs until a diagnosis has been confirmed. This is due to the risk of bleeding if the virus is actually Dengue and not Zika.
West Nile Virus Is Also a Threat in Texas
Although Zika virus has been a popular topic for news stories, there is evidence to suggest West Nile virus may prove to be a bigger threat in the short term. An article published by the Dallas News reveals:
“Whether it’s West Nile, dengue fever, Zika – or all three — we can expect to see some kind of mosquito-borne illness in Texas this summer.”
The bottom line is that protecting your family from Zika virus may also help protect your family from the more prevalent West Nile virus, as well as dengue fever, and the uncomfortable, itchy spots that result from mosquito bites.
Protecting Your Family from Zika and West Nile Virus
Protecting your family from Zika and West Nile Virus may mean paying more attention to preventing mosquitoes. This is particularly true if you have standing water on your property or you have to use citronella candles and bug spray because of the mosquito density in your area.
An important step in protecting your family from these viruses is making sure there are no puddles or areas of standing water around your home. Unless the water is part of a swimming pool or a fish pond, it’s important to eliminate standing water.
You may also want to consider having Buzz Kill Pest Control install an automated mosquito control misting system. These misting systems spray pyrethrin around the perimeter of your property to keep mosquitoes from crossing into your yard and taking up residence.
Hire Buzz Kill Pest Control for Your DFW Pest Control Needs
Did you know? Buzz Kill Pest Control will install your system and provide regular, ongoing service for a mosquito misting system.
Do you have questions or concerns about Zika virus, mosquitoes, and protecting your family in Dallas? Contact Buzz Kill Pest Control, and we’ll discuss the steps we can take to control mosquitoes on your property.