In the past week, news of the spreading Zika virus has taken the media by storm. Typically more common in Central and South America, there have been 12 reported cases in Florida in the past week – enough for Governor Scott to issue a state of emergency in the five effected counties. For the rest of us, these recent cases serve as a great reminder of the importance of investing in an effective mosquito barrier and perhaps even installing a SWAT pyrethrum yard fogger. Domestically we are accustomed to hearing about West Nile Virus, and for international travelers malaria and dengue steal most of the headlines. So what is the deal with the Zika virus, and what can we do to prevent it?
What is the Zika virus and how can a Pyrethrum yard fogger help fight it?
The Zika virus is a mosquito borne virus that was first discovered in Uganda in the 1940s. It remained relatively isolated for a long time before spreading to the South Pacific. Most recently, the virus has been spreading dramatically throughout Central and South America, and there is a real threat it could extend into the Southern U.S. as well. Thankfully, the 12 reported cases in Florida are all in individuals who were bit by mosquitos while traveling in affected areas. If it does happen to extend into Florida and the Southern U.S., your best defense is to invest in a strong mosquito barrier. Currently, SWAT’s insect fogging technology has proven to be one of the best ways to rid your property of the potential virus-carrying mosquitos.
What would happen if you contracted the Zika virus?
Much like other mosquito born illnesses, the Zika virus has a varying degree of severity. About 1/5 of people with the Zika virus will develop body aches, a fever, rash, nausea, and diarrhea with symptoms dissipating after about one week. The most rare, and severe, forms of the Zika virus can lead to a neurological condition that weakens muscles, damages nerves, and can even paralyze. The more severe symptoms will last weeks, months, or even years. In extreme cases, this condition can even lead to death. Many of the people who contract the virus, however, show no symptoms and have no idea they have become a carrier. While good for the individual, this is very concerning from an epidemiology standpoint. If the right species of mosquito bites an infected individual the insect now becomes a carrier, and the disease can spread rapidly. This is a concern in Florida as the number of reported cases has grown, and now is the perfect time to invest in a preventative insect fogging machine..
While a state of emergency has been issued in Florida for the recent Zika virus reports, it is not yet time to panic. By installing a mosquito barrier or pyrethrum yard fogger from SWAT, you can do your part to keep yourself and your family safe if this virus does start to spread. For more information about this virus, visit the CDC website at: www.cdc.gov/zika/