Mosquitos have long been identified as carriers of disease in Ontario. Unfortunately, sometimes they leave more than an itchy mark behind. As they bite humans and feed on their blood, they can transfer serious diseases while the person is unaware they are even being bitten.

Mosquitos bite quickly, quietly, and are extremely difficult to control. That is why the Zika virus has created such a scare in the global health community and across the world. The full effects of the virus remain unknown, but educating yourself as much as possible and taking protective measures to keep yourself from being bitten will help you to decrease your risks. If you need help with mosquito control in Toronto, our pest control experts in Markham can help.

Effective Wildlife Control for Richmond Hill Residents

Here are the basics you need to know about Zika virus:
What is Zika Virus?
Zika virus was discovered in 1947 and is a mosquito-borne virus that is closely related to dengue and West Nile viruses. It was first found in the Zika Forest of Uganda and is typically transmitted through a mosquito bite. In some cases; however, it may also be transferred through sexual contact, blood transfusion or from a mother to her fetus. The virus is therefore considered to be more problematic for those who are pregnant.
What are the Symptoms?
After being bitten by an infected mosquito, symptoms will begin to show up after 3-12 days. Fever, muscle and joint pain, rashes, conjunctivitis and a headache may be present. Most people infected do not display symptoms, and it is considered a mild disease that is usually resolved within 2-7 days. Recently, some studies have speculated that the disease could be associated with Guillain-Barré syndrome, where infants are born with incomplete brain development. Women who are pregnant are especially susceptible and should take extra precautions to avoid the virus, especially if travelling.
Where is it Most Common?
Please check the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) map for the latest information about Zika virus activity throughout the Americas. Ontarians are most at risk when travelling, depending on the time of year and destination of their trip. It is highly unlikely that local transmission through mosquitos will occur since the types of mosquitos that transmit the virus are not native to Ontario. If you have travel plans to any of the affected areas, it is recommended that you speak to your doctor beforehand to learn about any preventative measures that can be taken, and be sure to dress appropriately when you are there.

3 Options for Mosquito Control & Protection

While the risks are low, a sure way to avoid illness is to avoid getting bitten by a mosquito. Don’t just hope the mosquito won’t choose you, or avoid taking part in your favourite spring and summer activities. Use the three methods to lower your risk of getting bitten by a mosquito while taking part in activities after dusk or by the water this summer:

• Repellant: If your skin will be exposed, spray it using a DEET bug spray to deter the insects from biting.
• Control the Area: Rather than focusing on each person at your event, try to make the area as uninviting to mosquitos as possible. Lighting candles and setting up fans to blow the bugs away can help. Setting up netting or hiring a professional to spray the area with a safe, non-toxic repellant are the best ways to keep the bugs away. ICE Pest Control and Wildlife Removal offers mosquito control services in Toronto that will ensure your guests stay comfortable at your outdoor event.
• Control the Area: Rather than focusing on each person at your event, try to make the area as uninviting to mosquitos as possible. Lighting candles and setting up fans to blow the bugs away can help. Setting up netting or hiring a professional to spray the area with a safe, non-toxic repellant are the best ways to keep the bugs away. ICE Pest Control and Wildlife Removal offers mosquito control services in Toronto that will ensure your guests stay comfortable at your outdoor event.

Call Us for Pest Control Services in Markham

If you have a wedding or other outdoor event this summer and want to enjoy the evening without worrying about mosquitos, contact us for pest control in Markham and the surrounding Greater Toronto Area. We can provide fast, safe and effective protection for you and your guests. If you have a mosquito or other insect problem, our team offers professional and reliable services to keep you and your property safe from unwanted bugs, pests and critters.
Contact us today online or at 1-888-439-8376 to learn more about mosquito control in Toronto or to schedule your pest removal appointment.