ZIKA has been making headlines lately due to its harmful effects, mainly pregnancy complications. Typical symptoms include fever, skin rashes, muscle pain and headache. However, it’s estimated that only about 20% of people will exhibit symptoms at all; the rest will not be affected. Although these symptoms tend to only last a few days to a week, if at all, the real harm manifests itself by causing microcephaly in babies born to infected pregnant women. Microcephaly stunts a child’s head growth, leading to potentially fatal brain damage.
In January, the World Health Organization declared birth defects linked to the ZIKA virus to be an international public health emergency. But this isn’t the first harmful disease to be transmitted by mosquitos. The Aedes mosquito, in particular, also transmits dengue, chikungunya and yellow fever.
To stay safe this summer, it’s important to cover mosquito breeding sites in and around your home. These include areas where water can gather, such as pots and buckets. Additionally, use window screens and close doors whenever possible to prevent mosquitos from entering your home. When outside, apply a mosquito repellent to exposed skin and, as a supplementary measure, use a fogger to provide a protection around your lawn or patio. The new Swamp Gator Fogger provides a lasting barrier for up to 8 hours and is also approved for indoor use.
Enjoy the outdoors and keep yourself and your family safe this summer!
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