According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the Aedes species of mosquito is the main vector/carrier that transmits the viruses that cause Zika, Dengue, Chikungunya and Yellow Fever, among others. The viruses are passed on to humans through the bites of an infective female Aedes mosquito, which mainly acquires the virus while feeding on the blood of an infected person.
There have been strong associations, in time and place, between infection with the Zika virus and a rise in detected cases of neurological disorders (such as Guillain-Barré syndrome) and neonatal malformations (microcephaly). The lack of vaccines and rapid and reliable diagnostic tests, and the absence of population immunity in newly affected countries were cited by WHO as further causes for concern.
Key facts
– Zika virus disease is caused by a virus transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes.
– There may be no symptoms at all, but people with Zika usually present with symptoms including fever, skin rash (exanthema), conjunctivitis, muscle and joint pain, malaise and headache. These symptoms are usually mild and last for 2-7 days.
– There is no specific treatment or vaccine currently available.
– The best form of prevention is protection against mosquito bites.
– The virus is known to circulate in Africa, the Americas, Asia and the Pacific.
Incubation Period and Treatment
The incubation period (the time from exposure to symptoms) of Zika virus disease is not clear, but is likely to be a few days. Zika virus disease is usually relatively mild and requires no specific treatment. People sick with Zika virus should get plenty of rest, drink enough fluids, and treat pain and fever with common medicines. If symptoms worsen, they should seek medical care and advice.
Prevention
Mosquitoes and their breeding sites pose a significant risk factor for Zika virus infection. Prevention and control relies on reducing mosquitoes through source reduction (removal and modification of breeding sites) and reducing contact between mosquitoes and people.
Mosquito Control
To help reduce the chance that dangerous mosquitoes will get too close to home, be vigilant about eliminating their breeding grounds by dumping any standing water around your property every few days. As little as a teaspoon or bottle cap of water left standing for more than a week is enough for eggs to develop into adult mosquitoes.
How Can Lawn Doctor Help?
Lawn Doctor’s Yard Armour Mosquito Services offer comprehensive plans to help keep your yard mosquito-free.* Learn more here.
*No control program can eliminate mosquitoes and ticks completely. The Yard Armour® services of local Lawn Doctor franchise businesses will reduce mosquito and tick populations in treated areas. No franchisee or any affiliate makes any expressed or implied guarantee regarding vector-borne health risks to humans or animals. Exposure to disease can occur in uncontrolled areas.
