Zika Virus
The Zika Virus was first seen in the Zika Forest in Uganda, and until 2007, it was found only in Africa and Asia. In the past decade, this virus, which is related to other mosquito-borne illnesses like West Nile, dengue, Japanese encephalitis and yellow fever, has spread east to the U.S. In 2015 and 2016, it was declared by the World Health Organization (WHO) to be an epidemic and a public health emergency. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) maintains Zika information and guidelines for those who may be at greater risk of infection.
How is Zika Spread?
The Zika virus, which causes Zika, is spread by mosquito bites from infected insects, primarily from the Aedes species, to humans. People who travel or work in areas where Zika is present are at the greatest risk. Zika has been reported in South America, Central America and Africa, in addition to India. In the U.S., local Zika transmission has been seen in areas of Miami, Florida and Brownsville, Texas, in addition to U.S. territories like Puerto Rico, American Samoa and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The CDC maintains ongoing information about areas at risk of Zika.
What are the Effects and Symptoms of a Zika Infection?
Most people who become infected with the Zika virus do not get sick and may not even realize they have it. Symptoms that do occur tend to be mild and include rash, headache, red eyes, fever and joint pain, appearing 3-12 days after the person has been bitten. These symptoms can last for a few days up until about a week. However, for pregnant women, the risks can be far greater, as it has been shown that a Zika infection during pregnancy may cause birth defects.
How Can You Protect Yourself Against the Zika Virus?
Protection against Zika includes staying indoors, wearing protective clothing and using insect repellent. However, for those wishing to enjoy the outdoor environment of their home and for owners of businesses such as resorts, country clubs and restaurants with outdoor dining, there is a better solution. An effective mosquito control system allows family, friends and customers to enjoy the outdoors without having to worry about the potential danger of mosquitos.
The MosquitoNix® Solution for Controlling Mosquitos
MosquitoNix is your premiere mosquito control company. Our extremely effective MosquitoNix Misting System lets you reclaim your backyard, patio or outdoor landscape. It’s the perfect solution for any home or commercial facility. For special outdoor events, we offer our temporary Mosquito Fogging Treatment. We also offer MosquitoNix Green, which is the all-natural solution for ridding your residence or commercial space of mosquitos and other insects.
Call us today at 844-483-3213 to eliminate mosquitos from your outdoor environment and greatly reduce the risk of mosquito-transmitted illnesses like Zika.