The Zika virus has been all over the international news in the past weeks as the virus and its dangerous consequences continue to spread, so much so that the World Health Organization is currently debating declaring Zika officially a “public health crisis”. Luxury Screens offers an overview of what you need to know to protect your home and family from Zika.
Zika is a mosquito-borne illness that is spreading quickly and can have serious neurological repercussions for unborn children, making the virus especially concerning for pregnant women. Zika is transmitted when an Aedes mosquito bites a person with an active infection and then spreads the virus by biting others. The symptoms are generally quite mild, usually fever, headache, rash and sometimes pink eye, meaning that up to 80% of those infected do not realize they have contracted Zika. This makes it particularly alarming for pregnant women who may not realize they have been infected.
Zika is currently active and growing in Mexico, Latin America and the Caribbean and is likely to spread to parts of the USA during warmer months. As yet, there is no vaccine, but the Center for Disease Control (CDC) advocates the following to help stop the spread of Zika:
• Keeping insect screens on windows and doors is critical.
• Sleep in air-conditioned, screened rooms.
• When outdoors, use an EPA-approved repellent over sunscreen, wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts thick enough to block a mosquito bite.
• Eliminate any standing water around your home.
Installing screen doors and window screens in your home can be the first line of protection for your family against insects that carry these diseases as well adding value and comfort to your home. Contact us for the best insect screen options for your home.
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