Mosquito FAQ

Editor’s note: The following comes from the National Pest Management Association. For more information about how you can protect yourself and your customers from Zika virus and other mosquito-borne diseases, visit www.npmapestworld.org.

You may have seen the recent news headlines about Zika virus, a rare mosquito-borne disease that has made its way to the United States. While there are no documented cases to date associated with local transmission in the continental United States, Zika virus has been reported in travelers returning from other infected countries – and cases continue to pop up on a near daily basis.

Q: How can I best control mosquitoes?

A: Mosquito control begins with eliminating areas of standing water such as flowerpots, birdbaths, grill covers and baby pools. Homeowners should also screen all windows and doors, repairing even the smallest hole. For stronger mosquito treatment, people should use an insect repellent containing DEET on exposed skin and wear long pants and sleeves to prevent mosquito bites when outdoors.

Q: How is Zika virus transmitted?

A: Zika virus is spread through the bite of an infected Aedes genus of mosquitoes, which is the same type of mosquito that carries dengue fever and chikungunya. Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which live predominantly in tropical and sub-tropical regions, are the primary carriers, but Aedes albopictus mosquitoes might also transmit the virus. This species, commonly known as the Asian tiger mosquito, is found much farther north in the summer.

Q: Where is Zika virus found?

A: There have also been reports of Zika virus cases in Illinois, Florida, Texas and New York, but all of the individuals contracted the disease while traveling to infected countries.

Q: What are the chances of an outbreak in the United States?

A: While the probability of infected mosquitoes traveling to the United States is unlikely, there is reason to believe that Zika virus can spread locally. If more imported cases continue to surface, especially as the summer months near, it may result in human-to-mosquito-to-human spread of the virus.

Q: What are the symptoms of Zika virus?

A: In general, most cases cause no symptoms. Only about one in five people infected with Zika virus become ill. Those who do develop symptoms often experience several days of mild headaches, fever, rash, conjunctivitis (red eyes) and joint pain.

Q: What is the treatment for Zika virus?

A: Zika virus is a self-limiting disease that typically only requires supportive care. The 20 percent of infected people who actually develop symptoms should get plenty of rest, stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, and take acetaminophen for pain. It’s important to avoid aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs until another infection like dengue fever can be ruled out.

Q: What’s the best way to prevent Zika virus?

A: The NPMA urges people to protect their skin from mosquito bites when outdoors by applying an effective insect repellent containing at least 20 percent DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon-eucalyptus. People who are spending long amounts of time outdoors should also consider wearing long pants and long sleeved shirts to limit exposure to mosquitoes. The type of mosquito that carries Zika virus is a daytime biter, so taking preventive measures at all times of the day is crucial.