If you feel like you've been hearing more and more about mosquito viruses in the news, you're not imagining things. You actually are. With the recent threat of Zika hitting our shores, mosquitoes are becoming public enemy number one again. But, the threat of mosquito viruses has been around for some time. It isn't something new. But, it seems to be something new for the United States.
Researchers are taking note of several factors that are increasing mosquito populations and increasing the risk that mosquito-borne viruses will find a vector. These conditions are drought, heavy rainfall, and an overall increase in temperature.
When it is dry for a long time and suddenly there is a deluge of rain, puddles are left on the ground. These puddles of standing water are a perfect place for mosquitoes to lay their eggs and reproduce. Since these drastic changes in climate are on the rise, we're seeing higher mosquito populations than in years past.
Warmth also plays a part in the growth of mosquito populations. When it is warmer through the winter, more mosquitoes survive. When it is warmer in the summer, mosquitoes are more active, especially in the morning and evening when they aren't being dried out by the sun. This increase in activity leads to an increase in breeding and propagation.
What does that mean for us?
More mosquitoes mean a greater chance of mosquito viruses like Zika, West Nile, chikungunya, dengue, yellow fever, and more, to have their effect on us. While most of the time these viruses come with few or no symptoms, under the right conditions, they can be deadly or have lifelong implications. The Zika virus, which is the new threat on the block, has been scientifically proven to cause microcephaly in unborn children at all stages of pregnancy, and one baby with microcephaly is one baby too many.
How do you protect yourself?
The United States government trusts mosquito abatement as the frontline defense to protect its citizens from the spread of mosquito-borne viruses. This is a protocol that has shown itself to be successful, especially when it is done to a high enough scale. But it is a protocol that is incomplete without the help of business owners and homeowners.
Mosquito season is about to begin. Consider taking part in the solution that will keep us safe from these deadly and dangerous diseases. Schedule your mosquito control now before those mosquitoes come to breed. Together, we can make our country, our state, our communities, and our families safer, and have fewer irritating mosquitoes leaving puffy, itchy welts on our skin. It is a win-win.
For more information, or to schedule service, reach out to us today for immediate assistance.