Tips for combating mosquito-borne virus

As the 2017 mosquito season gets underway in many warm areas, so do renewed concerns about Zika virus and its effect on human health and unborn babies.

Zika virus is spread by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito (Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus). This leads to concerns of neurologic complications, and concerns in women infected with the mosquitoborne virus during pregnancy having babies born with microcephaly, a rare neurological condition, and other severe fetal brain defects.

Dr. Gregory Poland, director of the Mayo Clinic Vaccine Research Group, says wearing long sleeves and long pants in areas where mosquitoes are present are important ways to protect yourself from being bitten — even during warm daylight hours. He says the mosquitoes that carry the Zika virus often bite during the day.

“Different mosquitoes bite at dusk and dawn, but the ones that carry Zika are primarily — not exclusively, but primarily — daytime biters. So using repellents, particularly ones that contain Deet or permethrin are very effective against preventing bites. Wear the appropriate clothing. Use mosquito repellent. Stay out of areas where there are a lot of mosquitoes.”

To control mosquitoes at home, consider these tips:

• Remove standing water where mosquitoes could lay eggs.

• Remove items that hold water, such as vases and flowerpot saucers.

• Use an outdoor insect spray to kill mosquitoes in areas where they rest, including dark, humid areas; under patio furniture; or in a garage.

• Keep mosquitoes out of your home by ensuring window screens are intact and keeping doors closed.