What you need to know about the Zika Virus

Last updated: 5/6/2021

Estimated read time: 3 minutes

Making headlines across the country, the Zika Virus has caused some serious panic. There is a lot of misinformation out there, and as professional mosquito exterminators, we wanted to address the concerns that you have. Whenever people fall victim to diseases that are passed on by mosquitoes it’s important to know the nature of the problem and the risk of exposure. With this information, you can make the best decisions concerning the safety of your family.

Zika Virus FAQs

1. How is it spread?

According to the CDC, the virus is primarily transmitted via bites of infected the Aedes species of mosquito.  They carry the virus from one infected person to another.  The virus can also be spread from mother to child, and through sexual contact or blood transfusions.

2. Which areas have Zika?

As of March 23, 2016, the CDC reported that the Zika virus has spread through both Americas, as well as some Pacific Island nations.  Active transmission has been reported in countries like Mexico, Brazil, and Cuba.

3. So, is my family safe?

As of right now, there has been no reports of locally acquired vector-borne cases in the US.  All 273 cases in the United States were the result of travel.  19 of those cases are in pregnant women, and 6 were sexually transmitted. We are keeping a close watch on the virus to make sure it doesn’t become even more of a major health threat in the United States.  In the meantime, the CDC recommends avoiding mosquito bites and work to prevent transmission during intercourse if you are a male.

4. What happens if someone gets infected?

There is currently no vaccine to prevent or medicine to treat Zika virus. If a pregnant woman gets the Zika Virus their infant might be born with microcephaly. This is when a newborn has a very small head, as well as brain damage. This can happen if a pregnant woman gets bitten by an infected mosquito or has sexual relations with a man that has recently traveled to an area where there has been active transmission. The scary thing is the man may not even know if he is infected. Only 1 in 5 people infected with the Zika Virus actually display symptoms. That means most people don’t even know they’re infected.

5. What are the symptoms?

Fever, rash, joint pain, and red eyes are the common symptoms.

6. What can I do to protect my family?

While we highly recommend cutting down on the mosquito population in your own backyard, it’s best to use mosquito repellents when you’re outside. A mosquito treatment for you lawn is a great way to curb the mosquitos in your backyard and not limit your outdoor fun. Be sure to check your screens and patch any holes so mosquitoes don’t find their way into your home.