I think that everybody has heard about the Zika Virus! It seems like you can not turn on the news without hearing the latest statistics of the spread of Zika! Now that there have been more cases reported in the United States, it is time that we do our part to prevent the spread of this virus.
So, what exactly is the Zika Virus? The CDC states that the Zika Virus “is spread to people primarily through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. The most common symptoms of Zika are fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). The illness is usually mild with symptoms lasting for several days to a week after being bitten by an infected mosquito. People usually don’t get sick enough to go to the hospital, and they very rarely die of Zika. For this reason, many people might not realize they have been infected. However, Zika virus infection during pregnancy can cause a serious birth defect called microcephaly, as well as other severe fetal brain defects. Once a person has been infected, he or she is likely to be protected from future infections.”
Originally it was thought that there would only be 10 states that would be affected with the Zika carrying mosquitos. Right now, there are 30 states with these mosquitos. Dr. Kevin Campbell with the National Institutes of Health feels that the problem is much larger than originally anticipated and it is now hitting us in North Carolina! He has said that they are seeing more birth defects such as blindness and more premature births. In adults, they are finding neurological defects such as Guillain-Barre syndrome which can cause temporary and permanent paralysis. To quote Dr. Campbell, “This is a big deal and I think a scary, scary virus and it is getting more scary the more we learn about it!”
Unfortunately, there is no vaccine that is currently available for the Zika Virus. There are a few ways that we know to prevent contracting the Zika Virus. For starters, we know that you can contract the virus if you have unprotected sex with someone that has the virus. We also know that the mosquito that carries this virus is generally out during the day. So, you should do what you can to prevent getting bit by mosquitos. That is where we can help you out!
At StopTheBites.com, you will find information about our insect control program. Right now, we are in the process of updating our website to include information about the Zika Virus. However, our insect control program will not only help with Zika Virus carrying mosquitos but all mosquitos, ticks, fleas and fire ants. We have modified our program so that the beneficial insects to your lawn and landscape will not be affected and it is absolutely safe for your family and pets. I use this program on my own yard and I have four children, three dogs and two cats. I have not had a flea or tick problem in years and it is nice to sit outside without being eaten by pesky mosquitos! Now with the Zika Virus being the latest scare, I am even happier not to have to deal with mosquitos!
If you are concerned about the Zika Virus or would like us to come out and provide you with a free, no-obligation evaluation, please give us a call. We are always here to answer your questions at 336-854-7999.
