Zika virus a reminder to keep mosquitoes at bay
The Zika virus has been a hot topic in the news. This virus has been reported in the United States, but according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the cases reported have been contracted during travel to other counties where the Zika virus is present or through sexual contact with an infected partner.
According to CDC, the Zika virus was first discovered in Uganda in 1947. The first human case was in 1952. Since that time there have been outbreaks of Zika in the tropics of Africa, Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. In May 2015, Zika was confirmed in Brazil.
The primary mosquito vector is the Aedes aegypti, but many other Aedes species are also know to serve as vectors. Stagnant water is a must for mosquito development. Both female and male mosquitoes feed on plant nectar, but it is the female mosquito that feeds on blood to obtain nutrients needed for egg production. When a female mosquito bites, it injects saliva to keep the blood from coagulating. This saliva is what causes the itching and welt associated with a mosquito bite.
So what can you do to prevent and control mosquitoes in your yard? Because mosquitoes need stagnant water to reproduce, removal of these sources is a must. Items like birdbaths, clogged gutters, wading pools, saucers under flowers pots, stumps and tree holes, leaky faucets or the drain outlet for the air conditioner are all good breeding locations for mosquitoes. Change outside pet water and birdbaths twice a week. If you have something like a rain barrel, you can use mosquito briquettes to eliminate larvae. Be sure to read and follow labeling directions.
Unfortunately, mosquitoes can travel 2-3 miles. Because of this, make sure your house is well sealed. Make sure all screens are in good condition and are without holes. Make sure you shut doors completely when entering and exiting. If a mosquito enters your house, use a fly swatter to kill it instead of a pesticide.
When outside, sitting in front of a fan can help keep mosquitoes at bay. Citronella candles, clip-ons and torches can also help when there is not too much air movement. Wearing long-sleeve shirts and pants can help keep mosquitoes from biting, but mosquitoes can bite through tight clothes. When using repellents make sure and read the label. The most effective mosquito repellent contains DEET. Products containing permethrin should only be used on clothing.
In your yard, foggers can provide temporary relief over a limited area. Always read a follow labeling instructions. Several traps are sold on the market for mosquito control. Make sure you purchase one that has been shown to be effective against mosquitoes.
DATES TO REMEMBER
May 3: Propagation Class, Perry 6-8 p.m.
May 12: Pollinators Class, Perry 6-8 p.m.
For more information, contact Houston County Extension at 478-987-2028 or visit the office at 801 Main St., Perry. Office hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday. Visit www.caes.uga.edu/extension/houston for more news about your local Extension office.
This story was originally published April 12, 2016 at 10:07 PM with the headline "Zika virus a reminder to keep mosquitoes at bay ."