ZIKA: FIGHT THE BITE DAY & NIGHT

Currently, there are no reports of any mosquitoes in the continental U.S. carrying the virus. Zika only exists here because of travelers who have gone to countries with active Zika virus transmission, were bitten by a mosquito Zika carrier, and then returned to the U.S. Zika is only transferred from human to human through sexual contact, infected blood products, and from pregnant mother to baby.

The CDC is making a strong recommendation to take extra precautions this summer to avoid getting any mosquito bites. If a mosquito bites someone who is infected with Zika, they can become a carrier and pass it on to offspring—in which case, the virus will spread faster in the U.S.

Zika Virus Vectors

Aedes species mosquitoes

This particular species also transmits Dengue and Chikungunya viruses, but are not carriers of West Nile

Did you know?

It only takes a teaspoon of water for mosquitoes to breed.

Key Concerns

Microcephaly

Abnormally small head size in babies

Guillain-Barré syndrome

Immune system attacks nerves, causes severe muscle weakness

Remember the THREE Ds

DRESS in light colored, long-sleeved, loose fitting clothes

DRAIN standing water

DEET or use other EPA-recommended insect repellents

Zika Virus in Austin/Travis County

The state of Texas has 32 Zika virus cases

Only two people in the Austin/Travis County area have tested positive for Zika

There are no reported severe illnesses, hospitalizations, or deaths

No existing vaccines, cures, or accepted treatment

Symptoms (appear two to seven days after initial bite)

Fever

Rash

Joint pain

Conjunctivitis (red eyes)

Muscle pain

Headaches

Four out of five people infected with Zika virus won’t even know they have the disease. Usually, mild symptoms will last for several days to a week.

Top 5 Breeding Habitats at Home

1.Domestic containers (buckets, dog bowls, etc.)

2.Flower pot plates/trays

3.Ornamental containers (flower vases)

4.Plants (hardened soil and plant axils)

5.Toilet bowls