Protect Yourself from the Zika Virus
If you’ve watched the news recently, you’ve probably heard something about the mosquito-borne Zika virus.
Zika is relatively harmless for most of us, but it may be linked to serious birth defects in babies of mothers who were infected with the virus while pregnant. Though there have been few reported cases of Zika in the United States so far, it is expected that the disease will spread rapidly as temperatures rise.
As mosquito season approaches, there are some important steps you can take to protect yourself and your family from the effects of the Zika virus.
Cover Exposed Skin
Even in warm summer months, it’s important to keep skin covered if you or your children spend a lot of time outdoors. Choosing loose-fitting, light colored clothing will protect you against mosquito bites.
Use Repellents
Another way to keep mosquitoes at bay is to use insect repellents before going outdoors. Do not use repellent on infants under 2 months, and be cautious with children’s hands, mouth, eyes, or any irritated skin. If you’re worried about using harsh chemicals, there are natural alternatives like citrus, catnip oil, or cinnamon leaf oil.
Close the Door on Mosquitoes
Making sure you’re protected from Zika outdoors is one thing – keeping the inside of your house mosquito-free is another. Check screens on your porch and in doors and windows to make sure there aren’t splits, and leave doors and windows without screens shut.
Get Rid of Breeding Grounds
Prevent the mosquito population from multiplying outside your home by emptying, cleaning, or covering containers that collect water. Making sure that buckets, flower pots, bird baths, watering cans, and gutters are drained can play a huge part in controlling the population of mosquitoes in your yard.
Call Green Pest Control NC
The best way to prevent the Zika virus from affecting your loved ones is to keep mosquitoes away from your home altogether. At Green Pest Control, we are committed to keeping your family safe by reducing mosquito populations in your yard with our proven Safe Lawn Mosquito Control program.