Zika Virus Updates for Massachusetts

New Mosquito-Borne Virus Poses Serious Risks

There have been growing concerns over the Zika Virus. This mosquito-borne virus originated in South America and has been deemed a potential risk for any travelers to the regions affected by the virus., which are primarily Central and South America.The virus is spread through mosquito bites and in general, causes mild symptoms of fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). The biggest concern with this virus is the potential risk to pregnant women and their unborn children.

The first confirmed case was reported in Brazil May 2015 but now more than 51 cases have been reported in the United States at the time this article was published. The majority of those cases are in Texas and Florida.

Zika Virus Facts

Zika Virus is transmitted by the bite of infected Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. There have been reported cases of possible spread through sexual transmission with those infected with the virus. Since symptoms are mild, those infected are not always aware they have contracted the virus. Symptoms can include fever, skin rashes, conjunctivitis, muscle and joint pain, malaise, and headache. A particularly concerning potential symptom of Zika Virus is brain defects, namely microcephaly, in children born from mothers infected with Zika Virus.

Are Massachusetts Residents at Risk?

While mosquitos are dormant during the winter months there is no current risk for MA residents unless they are traveling to Zika infected regions or have contact with persons who may have contracted the virus.Travelers should pay close attention to the travel risk updates put out by the CDC. Visit http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices/alert/zika-virus-south-america for more information.
Other mosquito-borne illnesses include West Nile Virus and Dengue fever. Tick borne illness can cause debilitating and even deadly forms of Lyme Disease.

The Best Prevention is to Prevent Contact with Mosquitoes.

Once spring is here and mosquitoes become active, we do not know the potential threat here in Massachusetts. The good news is that our Mosquito and Tick Control Programs can significantly reduce the threat of any potential infections by eliminating 90-95% of mosquitos from your property.

Mosquito & Tick Control Programs from Rutland Nurseries Protect your Family All season Long!

Call Now to Schedule a Mosquito and Tick Control Program for the first sign of spring thaw.

Call 508-886-2982 or email us