19 May South Carolina Experts Weigh in on the Zika Epidemic
Mosquitoes are one of the biggest reasons to hire SC pest control services during the warmer months of the year. They don’t just cause itchy bites. Their bites can also put people at risk of getting West Nile virus and other illnesses.
Some types of mosquitoes are known carriers of the Zika virus, which is a disease that can cause birth defects. While many people who have it end up recovering on their own, pregnant women are in danger of having babies born with serious defects, such as microcephaly.
The Zika virus has been in the news as a threat in South American countries, but warmer temperatures have brought Zika-capable mosquitoes to the southern U.S., including SC.
Zika Threat in SC
How likely is it that mosquitoes in SC will cause a Zika outbreak? Health officials are not concerned about any outbreaks occurring in SC, thanks to cooler winter temperatures and the other species of mosquitoes that are found in the state. Only two out of 60 mosquito species in SC can carry Zika, but they are not widespread in the state.
Health experts point out that outbreaks of other diseases carried by mosquitoes, such as dengue, have not spread to SC after occurring in Texas and Florida. This means that there is also a lower risk of Zika spreading in SC if outbreaks occur in other states.
Residents in SC who are worried about mosquitoes and the diseases they carry can protect themselves and their families with SC pest control services. These services include measures to prevent mosquitoes from invading and building up large populations on properties. Residents can also lower their risk by covering up with lightweight clothes, especially in the evening and at night.
Keep mosquitoes off your property this summer with help from Island Pest Control. We offer reliable SC pest control services that are designed to keep mosquitoes at bay.