Don’t give Zika a Biting Chance
If you live Texas, you probably have heard this slogan before. And if not, you can expect to hear it all summer long while watching TV, listening to the radio, or even see it on a billboard while driving down the road because the fear of Zika is real.
Ever since the Zika virus came to the forefront last year, people across the world have been on high alert and searching for ways to prevent the virus and control mosquitoes. This year, the Texas Department of State Health Services (TexasDSHS) has released its new campaign that details exactly how you can do that and furthermore, stop the spread of Zika too.
How to Prevent Mosquitoes and Stop the Spread of Zika
According to the TexasDSHS, to prevent Zika from spreading and to protect yourself and your family, we all must:
Get Rid of Any Freestanding Water
Mosquitoes love water. In fact, female mosquitoes lay their eggs in stagnant water. From swimming pools to flowers pots to bird baths, mosquitoes do not discriminate. That is why it is suggested that you remove any water from your yard to not only prevent mosquitoes from procreating, but also from taking up residence at your home.
Put Screens on Windows and Close Doors
Like any pest, once mosquitoes find a way into your home, you will quickly regret it. Placing screens on windows and ensuring doors are closed at all times will help keep mosquitoes outside where they belong.
Wear Long Sleeves and Pants Whenever Possible
While it may sound absurd to wear long sleeves and pants during the summer in Texas, it can actually help keep you and your family safe from mosquitoes and the viruses they carry. Also, since mosquitoes tend to bite during the night time, wearing long sleeves and pants is a lot more bearable since the sun won’t be beaming down on you.
Use EPA-Approved Mosquito Repellant
Whether it’s DEET, OFF or another brand, if you are planning on being outdoors this summer, be sure to apply an EPA-approved repellent. Even if you wear long sleeves or long pants, it is best to use repellant as well for extra precaution.
Facts About Mosquitoes in Texas
While the Zika virus is one of the most popular subjects this mosquito season, it’s not the only thing that Texans need to know about these pesky pests.
Here are three additional facts about mosquitoes you should know about if you live in Texas.
Fact # 1: There are about 85 different mosquito species living in Texas. This is only a fraction of the 3,500 different types found around the world.
Fact # 2: West Nile is still relevant. That’s right! Just because Zika is the talk of the town right now, as Texans, we must not forget about West Nile. West Nile is another viral infection that affects the central nervous system and has been known to take lives in Texas every year.
Fact # 3: Mosquito season doesn’t end when summer does. In fact, mosquito season doesn’t officially end until late November in Texas. So, from April to November, it is important that you do your part to keep your family and community safe from mosquitoes and what they carry.
Mosquito Control from Buzz Kill Pest Control
Are you looking for a good way to control the mosquitoes in your yard? The experts at Buzz Kill Pest Control have a solution for you! We can easily install an automated mosquito control misting system which sprays pyrethrin around the perimeter of your home.
To learn more about our mosquito control misting system, contact Buzz Kill Pest Control today!