All over the world, we seem to be hearing more and more about the Zika virus and Texas has made the list of 30 American cities most at risk of Zika virus more than once. The Zika virus is transmitted from human to human by the bite of infected female mosquitoes. The virus can be found in the blood passed from an infected person to another mosquito through mosquito bites.
The Zika Virus is a Serious Threat
The first baby in Texas with Zika-caused microcephaly was recently born. This child was born with a birth defect in Harris County, Texas, a region that includes Houston. Microcephaly is a rare neurological condition in which an infant’s head is significantly smaller than the heads of other children of the same age and sex. This was caused by the Zika virus. The child’s mother had traveled from Latin America, where the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) says she was likely infected with the virus. Mosquitoes can carry this virus and it is found in the United States. Texas has reported 59 cases of Zika, including three confirmed cases in pregnant women. The DSHS acknowledges that local transmission of Zika in Texas is likely.
How is the Zika Virus Transmitted?
Mosquitoes will lay eggs in and near standing water in things like buckets, bowls, animal dishes, flowerpots and vases. They are aggressive daytime biters, prefer to bite people and live indoors and outdoors near people. Mosquitoes will become infected when they feed on the blood of a person who is already infected with the virus. Then when the mosquito bites another person, the virus is spread. The mosquito will get the virus when they first feed on an infected person. After the virus has incubated for eight to ten days, the infected mosquito is capable, during blood feeding, of transmitting the virus for the rest of its life. There is no way of knowing whether a mosquito is carrying the virus. Infected humans are the main carriers and multipliers of the virus. Humans serve as the source of the virus for uninfected mosquitoes. The virus will circulate in the blood of infected humans for several days. At this time the infected human will be experiencing Zika fever.
Mosquito Prevention in Yard
The best way to avoid being infected with the Zika virus is to prevent mosquito bites. Avoid mosquito bites by using repellents when you are outdoors. The repellents should contain DEET to optimize safety and effectiveness and should be used according to the label instructions. When the weather allows, wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks when you are outside. You should also apply repellent to the clothes as they may try and sting through them. Be mindful of peak mosquito biting hours which are from dusk till dawn. Make sure screens are installed or repaired and empty ALL sources of standing water.
Mosquito Inspections, Control, Treatment, Management & Removal in Austin, Round Rock, Leander, Pflugerville & Cedar Park, Texas
The Zika virus is a serious threat and can be deadly. After you have taken all precautions to avoid mosquito bites, call A-Tex Pest Management to control and treat any mosquito issues you may be having to protect your family.