Zika Virus Update

With the ability to transmit diseases, mosquitoes can be a real concern. Among the diseases that can be transmitted through the bite of a mosquito is the Zika Virus. While people are generally more aware of the dangers that come with other illnesses, like dengue and malaria, that are associated with mosquitoes, Zika is emerging as a real problem and researchers are only recently starting to get a handle on the potential threat of this disease.

What Areas Have Zika?
The Zika Virus was initially discovered in rhesus monkeys in Uganda. Since then, the virus has been detected in humans and cases have been reported in several countries throughout the world. Until 2015, recorded outbreaks had only been in Africa, Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. Since then, the disease has also been reported in South America and the Caribbean. As of this writing, there have been no cases of infection reported in the Continental United States. However, there have been cases where travelers have returned home to the United States with the virus.

About Zika
Zika Virus can be transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito from Aedes species. Generally, the symptoms are mild, lasting from about 2-7 days, and most people will not require hospitalization. Currently, there is no vaccine available for the Zika Virus and prevention is the recommended strategy to protect against the disease.

Zika Symptoms
As mentioned above, the symptoms of the Zika Virus are usually mild and the illness tends runs its course without the need for hospitalization. Common symptoms of the disease include rash, conjunctivitis, headache, joint and muscle pain, fever and malaise. While most cases do resolve without the need for hospitalization and there is little concern for mortality in connection with the Zika Virus, there has been a connection between the infection of pregnant women and certain birth defects.

How is Zika Diagnosed?
Most people that contract the Zika Virus will not even know that they have it. This is because many will not exhibit symptoms and because of the similarity of the symptoms to other illnesses. If a person – especially pregnant women – experiences symptoms that are consistent with Zika, they should go to the doctor. If a Zika infection is suspected, then the doctor will order blood tests to confirm the presence of the disease. Since there are no vaccines or specific treatment protocols for the disease, the recommendation for Zika is rest, drinking fluids and taking over the counter pain medication.

Precautions for Pregnant Women
Zika Virus can be passed from a pregnant mother to the fetus. Several birth defects have been connected to the infection of mothers during the pregnancy. This includes the underdevelopment of the brain, defects to the eyes, a lack of growth and hearing problems. In 2015, the first indications of a link between the infection of pregnant women and the birth defect microcephaly were reported. In April 2016, the CDC released a study that does show a definitive link between Zika and microcephaly. To avoid the infection of this disease, pregnant women should not travel to places where the Zika Virus is common.

Prevention of Zika
With no vaccines or specific medicines, prevention is the only way to protect against this disease. For the most part, Zika will not be a threat to people living in the United States. If you do travel to an area where Zika is a concern, then you will need to take steps to prevent an infection.
Wearing long pants and long-sleeved shirts can be a good way to prevent mosquito bites. The use of EPA registered insect repellant can act as an effective preventative measure. Additionally, you will want to stay in an air-conditioned room with screens on the doors and windows. If you are infected, you should take steps to prevent the spread of the disease by avoiding mosquito bites and by abstaining from sexual contact.

Is Pyriproxyfen Safe?
Pyriproxyfen is an insecticide that is commonly used in the control of mosquitoes and other pests. While it is generally safe, it can cause problems for humans and animals if they are subject to high levels of exposure. However, it is a substance that has a very low toxicity for mammals and as long as it is used safely, there is no significant risk to Pyriproxyfen.

The current projection is that the Zika Virus will continue to spread to new areas. The CDC is already working on prevention and outbreak protocols. Even with Zika not yet being found in mosquitoes in the US, it is important for Americans to be aware of this disease and to keep these insects out of the home.

With the growing spread of the Zika virus, it is important now more than ever to ensure that our homes are free from mosquitoes. This can be done through constant vigilance against stagnant or standing water in our homes, as well as employing the services of a professional pest control company to ensure your home is protected. Contact us today to learn how to protect your home!

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