As the Zika virus continues to draw media interest and headlines, the topic remains top of mind for US citizens. The concern reached new heights in August 2016 when 21 cases of the Zika virus were contracted through mosquitoes near Miami, marking the first such cases in the United States. This prompted the CDC to issue an unprecedented travel advisory within the country, warning pregnant women and their partners to avoid travel to the affected neighborhood.
With the growing concern surrounding the Zika virus in the United States, it is important that mosquito abatement professionals, public health officials and the general public remain informed of the situation and understand the best practices required to limit the spread of any mosquito-borne disease.
What you Need to Know
Zika Virus:
Aedes aegypti – the vector:
What can the general public do?
Effective mosquito control requires contributions from the entire community, beyond just the professionals dedicated to controlling the pests. Joe Conlon, technical advisor for the American Mosquito Control Association, recommends the general public follow the “Three D’s” for effective prevention:
Additionally, citizens are advised to contact their local Mosquito Abatement District or Public Health Officials to report mosquito activity and request services in their area. This contact information and more household tips can be found at www.mosquito-awareness.com.
The Zika virus is likely to continue garnering attention, but mosquito abatement districts and public health officials remain committed to protecting communities from all mosquito-borne diseases. The best way to protect communities and limit these nuisance and disease carrying pests is through proactive control measures from mosquito control professionals. Central Life Sciences’ broad line of Larvicides (Altosid & Fourstar) & Adulticides (Zenivex, Perm-X & Pyronyl) can help with any integrated mosquito control program.
For more information, contact a representative near you.