In 2015, the Zika virus made its appearance in the United States. A mosquito-borne illness, it is transmitted by a bite from the Aedes aegypti mosquito. The virus can also be spread by sexual contact and from a mother to her unborn child in the womb. While for most healthy beings Zika symptoms don’t amount to much more than mild flu if there are any symptoms at all, for pregnant women the effects can be devastating. Children born to a woman that contracted Zika while pregnant are at risk of having severe birth defects, including microscopically.
Miami Under Close Watch
When Zika was first discovered in the United States, it was clear that it had been brought here by travelers returning from already infected countries. There were no signs that anyone had been bitten by an infected mosquito here on American soil. However, it did seem only a matter of time for this to change. Mosquitoes that bite a human with Zika can become infected. Due to rising numbers of people with the virus, the risk of a mosquitoes contracting it becomes greater. At the end of July, it appears that is just what happened. On August 6th, CDC Director Dr. Tom Frieden, reported in an interview with NPR that there are 13 people in the Wynwood neighborhood of Miami Florida that have been infected by a Mosquito bite. The CDC urges women who are pregnant or considering starting a family not to travel near this area in Miami.
South Carolina is Likely To Be Next
The Post and Courier, a paper out of Charleston, spoke with local entomologist Dwight Williams, and he believes that it is “very likely” that mosquitoes in South Carolina will also begin to transmit Zika to humans. The virus will make its way into the state with travelers who are sick when they arrive; they will be bitten and transmit Zika to the local mosquitoes. It is just a matter of time. There are already 25 cases of Zika in SC, none yet from a local mosquito bite.
Prevention Prevention Prevention
If you are planning to travel to Miami, be cautious. Wear protective clothing and bug repellent, but more importantly, if you are pregnant just don’t go. Mosquito Squad of Greenville is committed to keeping you informed here at home. The Aedes aegypti mosquito is a very aggressive daytime biter. Their eggs hatch in containers that hold water, but can also survive drought. The CDC believes these to be very adaptable organisms, making them harder to control, but certainly not impossible.
We must be diligent in keeping our homes and neighborhoods protected. Follow the 5Ts of mosquito control and don’t allow your yard to be a breeding ground for this or any other disease carrying mosquito. And call us… Mosquito Squad of Greenville wants to help with your peace of mind. Our mosquito prevention systems will eliminate 85-90% of adult mosquitoes in your yard on contact so that all you have to do is relax and enjoy your outdoors. Keep your home, your family, and your possible growing family protected. Contact us at (864) 362-2013 We back our service with a 100% satisfaction guarantee!