Another mosquito is a likely carrier of the Zika virus. This alarming report comes from the University of Florida. Scientists at the UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences detected Zika in the saliva of southern house mosquitoes collected in Florida, but they agree more research is needed.
The study’s finding appears to support that the mosquito species, known scientifically as culex quinquefasciatus mosquitoes, can contain live Zika virus in saliva. This mosquito is also known as the southern house mosquito. Until now, only the mosquito species known as aedes aegypti was considered the primary carrier of the Zika virus.
Just two years ago, Zika was found to cause microcephaly, a rare neurological condition in which an infant’s head is significantly smaller than the heads of other children of the same age and gender. The birth defect made its way to the shores of the U.S. through travelers. So far 28 U.S. cases have been discovered. All cases resulted from people who traveled outside of the U.S. However, it is unknown if Zika has spread to local populations. Cases were discovered throughout the northeast, including New York, New Jersey and Maryland.
The newly discovered carrier, culex quinquefasciatus, is common in the southern U.S. The mosquito is found in tropical and sub-tropical areas, including Brazil, Africa, and Southeast Asia. It’s brown in color and lives about 7 days. In that 7 days it can hatch, feed, and lay eggs with a proper supply of dirty, standing water. It typically feeds on birds, but often bites humans. It likes to rest in high quiet places, like trees.
The southern house mosquito is also known carrier of wuchereria bancrofti (roundworm), avian malaria, Louis encephalitis virus, Western equine encephalitis virus, and West Nile virus.
With the USDA saying mosquito season has been extended through the fall, none of this is welcome news. In an official statement they attribute the longer season to warmer weather, large amounts of standing water in storm impacted regions, and a spike in disease carrying mosquitoes, including culex quinquefasciatus.
Protect Yourself from Mosquitoes
You can protect yourself and your yard from the culex quinquefasciatus and it’s kin. Avoid dawn and dusk when the insects are most active. Also spray your skin and clothes with a repellant. One containing DEET works best, but there are alternatives.
To protect your yard, clear all standing water like puddles, stagnant ponds, and old planters. Also, it’s also important to have your yard treated by a professional, especially during the spring and summer months when your family and pets will be outdoors. Contact Backyard Defenders below for a FREE quote today!