Going Somewhere Warm for Spring Break?

Are you planning to pack your bags and head to a warmer climate this spring break? If so, it’s even more important to protect yourself against mosquitoes this year due to the announcement from The World Health Organization that declared the spread of the Zika virus an international public health emergency. The outbreak of the Zika virus, which is transmitted primarily by mosquitoes, was detected in Brazil last May and has since moved into more than 20 countries in Latin America. The main concern is over the virus’s possible link to microcephaly, a condition that causes babies to be born with brain damage and unusually small heads.

Many people are asking, what is the Zika virus? The Zika virus is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. This virus can cause an illness in those who are bitten that can last for several days. For pregnant women, it can also cause birth defects. There is no vaccine or medicine to treat the Zika virus at this time.

The growing pandemic is currently present in South and Central America, which are popular spring break destinations. There have also been reports of Zika virus cases in Illinois, Florida, Texas, New York and more. Most cases in the United States were from individuals who were bitten while traveling in affected areas.

The U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention has issued travel alerts for people planning to travel to regions with active Zika virus transmission. Mosquitos are often considered the most dangerous animals in the world, not due to a deadly bite, but from the disease organisms they can transmit.

Before you pack your bags and head out for spring break, refresh yourself on effective mosquito control and how to avoid contact with mosquitoes while traveling.

Tips to protect yourself from coming into contact with mosquitoes during travel and prevent them at home as Spring arrives in Wisconsin:

During travel:

• Minimize outside activity between dusk and dawn, when the majority of mosquitoes are most active.

• Use an insect repellant containing DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon-eucalyptus when outdoors.

• Wear shoes, long sleeves and pants if you are out between dusk and dawn.

At home:

• Eliminate sources of standing water on your property including bird baths, plant pots, toys or any other objects that could collect water.

• Keep pools and hot tubs covered when not in use.

• Screen all windows and doors. Repair even the smallest tear or hole to ensure mosquitos cannot enter.

For more information, please visit: http://www.wil-kil.com/mosquito-control or http://www.pestworld.org/news-and-views/pest-health-hub/posts/zika-virus-what-you-need-to-know/

Shane McCoy is an Associate Certified Entomologist with 17 years of experience in Pest Management and is the Director of Quality and Technical Training for Wil-Kil Pest Control servicing the Upper Midwest. To learn more about Wil-Kil, visit http://www.wil-kil.com/ or contact your local office at 800-236-8735. Follow Wil-Kil on Facebook and Twitter (@WilKilPest).