Zika virus: Get the facts, protect yourself
The Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall Directorate of Public Works-Environmental Management Division is asking the community to be cognizant of the Zika virus, a mosquito-borne virus that has been declared a global emergency by the World Health Organization. Common symptoms of the virus are fever, rash, joint pain and red eyes, according to the Center for Disease Control. Those on JBM-HH can take precautions to help prevent the risk of contracting Zika or other mosquito-borne viruses, including wearing repellents with DEET and Department of Defense Insect Repellent Systems (for those in uniform). Emptying items that contain water, such as gutters, flower pot saucers, buckets and discarded containers, can help prevent mosquito breeding.
Local testing continues, preventative measures key:
JBM-HH's public works staff have received specialized training to conduct surveillance and control measures throughout JBM-HH to trap female mosquitoes and their eggs and test them for both Zika and West Nile viruses. Traps to test for the Zika virus were recently collected throughout the joint base and will be sent to a special laboratory at Fort Meade, Maryland, for testing.
Last month, public works officials treated catchment basins to stop the breeding of Culex mosquitos. Trapping and testing for West Nile Virus-borne mosquitoes begins next week, according to Ron Purvis, JBM-HH Pest Management Team member.
While testing helps identify and alert the community to the presence of mosquitos carrying viruses, the best way to avoid virus contraction is by preventing mosquitos from breeding in the area, said Purvis. To achieve that, Purvis and fellow team member Ronald Quarles recommends joint base residents, staff, service members and others take an active part in preventing mosquito breeding by identifying and emptying items and areas that contain standing water. Standing water, such as that collected in plant pots, wheel barrows, and other potential backyard water catchers, are where mosquitoes lay their eggs, he said.
"Mosquitos can breed in a soda cap filled with water," said Purvis. "Make sure your trash cans have tops on them, clean your gutters and if you have a garden, empty pots and other items that collect water."
More preventative measures and tips include:
• Drill holes in the bottom of recycling bins and outdoor storage containers for drainage.
• Remove unneeded items that collect water, such as children's toys, flower pots, and plastic containers.
• Drain or replace corrugated plastic piping used to drain downspouts.
• Empty and refresh outdoor pet dishes, watering troughs and bird baths weekly.
For more information on the Zika virus, please click on the links to the right.
Related Links:
Joint base raises awareness of Zika virus
Zika Virus - What is it? What can you do?
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