June 6, 2016
Zika Virus: What You Need To Know
Zika Virus: chances are; you’ve heard of it, either on the news or from a friend. While there are numerous news stories about Zika, there are fewer answers about the virus, including the number of ways it can be transmitted from human to human and the extent of potential health problems it poses. The good news: there are many facts we do know and precautionary steps we can take to minimize our risk of exposure and infection.
Zika Virus Facts
Zika Virus originates from Africa and was first identified in 1947 in monkeys in the Zika Forest of Uganda. Since then, the virus has been found in other regions, most recently in Central and South America, including Brazil – the host country of the 2016 Summer Olympic Games.
The virus can be carried by Aedes genus mosquitos, which live in tropical and sub-tropical regions. The Aedes albopcitus mosquitos, commonly known as “Asian Tiger mosquitos”, can also carry Zika and are found much farther North in the summer.
Causes, Symptoms, and Risks of Zika Virus
Zika Virus is primarily transmitted to a person through the bite of an infected mosquito. The virus can also be transmitted human-to-human from an infected person through blood transfusion, sexual contact, and from mother to child during pregnancy. For the latest information on transmissions and risks, please visit the CDC’s website.
Only about 20% of infected people become ill and experience symptoms, which may last for 2-7 days and include mild headaches, fever, rash, red eyes, and joint pain.
Pregnant women face the greatest risk. While research is not yet conclusive, the virus can be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy and may cause microcephaly in the newborn baby. This condition causes babies to be born with small heads and can lead to early death.
How To Avoid Zika Virus
While no vaccine is currently available for Zika Virus, there are preventative measures you can take to reduce your risk of infection.
- Apply an effective mosquito repellent, even during the daytime hours. Choose a repellent with one of these ingedients.
- > 20% Deet
- > 20% Picaridin
- > 20% IR3535
- > 30% Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (or para-methane-diol)
- Wear long pants and/or long sleeved shirts, whenever possible.
- Reduce mosquito breeding grounds at your house, cabin, or business.
- Eliminate standing water. Remember, mosquitos can breed in as little as 1/2″ of water.
- Ensure that all windows and doors are properly screened.
- Have your property treated by professionals to reduce the number of mosquitos.
The technicians at Guardian Pest Solutions are experts in evaluating and treating your property. Request a Free Quote online or call 218-722-2686.
