Zika Virus Update For North America
One of the most pressing public health issues that’s played a recurring theme on nightly newscasts is the spread of the mosquito-borne Zika virus. While researchers are still actively trying to find a way to combat the disease through vaccination, the prospect of the virus spreading further into North America has many Americans on edge.
Here’s a summary of the most recent developments that have come about since the virus was discovered.
An Olympic Conundrum
This year’s 2016 Summer Olympics are taking place in Rio in Brazil. The South American country has been eagerly anticipating the event, making major pushes to renovate their infrastructure to handle the strain the visiting athletes and spectators will put on their system. However, with reports of nearly 4,000 cases of birth defects caused by the virus in Brazil alone, some world health officials have cautioned prospective travellers. With so many American athletes and media correspondents attending the event, there’s a very real possibility Americans could bring the virus back to the states and transmit the virus to others.
Reported Cases Continue to Increase
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) reports that as of June 1, 618 cases of the virus have been found in the mainland United States. New York and Florida have the most reported cases, with 130 and 128, respectively. As time goes on, the amount of these cases is expected to increase, especially as travel to and from the United States increases during the summer.
Practical Advice
While Zika might not seem like an immediate threat to you and your loved ones, it’s still important to limit your exposure when possible. If you have plans to travel to Caribbean destinations for leisure, especially to locales where the virus has been found to be prevalent, it might be time to reconsider. This goes doubly for trips to South America.
If you’re contending with other mosquito-borne diseases or viruses on your property, you can always call the experts at JP Pest Services to assess and develop a solution right for you. With decades of experience dealing with mosquitoes and other pests, you won’t find a better partner to work with.
Contact our Professionals today and find out how we can help you.
