An Important Message Regarding Coronavirus
03/16/2020
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An unusually warm winter and record breaking summer heat has brought an increase in pest populations across the country. Arguably the most annoying pest of summer, the mosquito is no exception to this trend. West Nile virus is a potentially serious illness spread by infected mosquitoes.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), a total of 693 cases of West Nile virus have been reported in humans in the United States so far this year. This “seasonal epidemic” has hit a new high in 2012 and with weeks remaining until some relief from summer heat, the prognosis is bleak.
Twenty-six deaths have been attributed to the disease this year as of Aug. 14, 2012. Risk factors for becoming infected with West Nile virus can be as simple as spending time outdoors where mosquitoes are present. Mosquitoes are most active during early morning hours around dawn and just as the sun is setting.
The best way to avoid contracting West Nile virus is to prevent mosquito bites. The CDC suggests:
- using insect repellent containing an EPA-registered active ingredient
- avoiding going outdoors when mosquito activity is highest
- reducing mosquito breeding areas around your home
- creating community based mosquito reduction plan to reduce populations.
Putting together an action plan to avoid exposure to potentially infected mosquitoes is an important step for communities in DC, Maryland and Virginia as cases have already been reported from the area this year. American Pest is dedicated to using integrated pest management to keep families safe from mosquitoes and other harmful pests in the DC Metro area.
