NASA Map Shows Florida is a Zika Hotspot

The most deadly animal on the planet, the lowly mosquito, is responsible for 725,000 deaths every year. Recently, a specific variety of mosquito, the Aedes aegypti, has grabbed headlines because it acts as a vector for the transmission of the Zika virus. At first, Zika was centralized in a small corner of the world, but through globalization, the prevalence of Zika has become a threat to any country located in the tropical or subtropical zones of the world. NASA scientists have recently released a map to better pinpoint and track A.aegypti mosquitoes, and the Orlando pest control team at Apex Pest Control wishes to share that information with you because the more you know about mosquito-borne diseases, the better you are able to protect yourself.

• Of the 50 United States cities listed as within or near the currently known areas where A. aegypti mosquitoes may thrive, several factors were taken into consideration: temperature range, rainfall amounts, poverty levels, and the likelihood of travel from known countries with known outbreaks of the Zika virus. Figuring in these factors, five major metropolitan areas in Florida were considered to “…exhibit the potential for at least low-to-moderate abundance,” of A. Aegypti mosquitoes. These cities are Tallahassee, Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa, and Miami.
• Mosquitoes are more active during sultry summer months, especially June through October. The most likely times to encounter mosquitoes are at dawn and dusk.
• Air travel to and from countries listed on the Zika travel advisory by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is higher during the months of July and August, two of the months when mosquito populations are most abundant.
• NASA senior research scientist Dale Quattrochi is hopeful the information will help public health officials target resources to key areas.
• Removing mosquito breeding areas, such as bird baths, upturned saucers, tires, or other discarded items that can hold water will help keep mosquito populations down.
• Read more about the Zika virus here.

Only one in five people experience symptoms of Zika, which include rash, fever, and joint pain. All pregnant women who travel should visit a physician if they have any concerns. If you are thinking of becoming pregnant, avoid any area where the Zika virus has been reported. If you note more than usual amounts of mosquitoes on your property, call Apex Pest Control today at  866-75-4070. Read our past blogs concerning Orlando pest control and how homeowners can help ensure fewer pests in their homes and yards.