The Zika infection was once nonchalantly assumed to be a foreign concern, not one that would harm our own shores, until yesterday when The Star reported the first Malaysian case of the Zika virus, contracted by a Klang woman who’d returned from Singapore.
If you’re unfamiliar with the virus, Zika is transmitted by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. Symptoms of Zika usually develop within 3 to 12 days of the mosquito bite and they often include an itchy rash, a fever, body aches, headaches, red eyes and the occasional nauseousness and vomiting. Deaths have been reported from Zika, and the virus is also especially harmful towards unborn babies. Pregnant women who have contracted this infection have high risks of delivering babies with microcephaly, a birth defect where the baby has an abnormally small head, a sloping forehead and a damaged brain. Unfortunately, no proven cure has been discovered so far.
Now that you’re aware of the dangers of Zika, the least you can do is to take serious prevention measures against mosquitoes, and it starts at home.
Keep Your Windows Closed
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That’s the first thing you should do. Don’t give mosquitoes a warm welcome into your home by leaving your windows open – because that’s how it all starts. And if you’re worried that it’ll get too stuffy with the windows shut, get an extra fan or install an aircond to keep everyone comfortable and happy. And if you must leave certain windows open, fix up mosquito nettings. It’ll make life a little harder for those pesky mosquitoes from entering.
Remove Stagnant Water
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Aedes mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. Clogged drains, empty flower pots, pet water bowls or containers that collect water should be drained and dried. The drains should be cleared of rubbish and dead leaves as to not obstruct the flow of running water, which washes the larvae away.
Clean Out Your Yard
If your yard is filled with rubbish or open plastic bags, throw them out! These can store water and become breeding spots for mosquitoes. If your garden’s in a bad shape, we’ll connect you with landscapers who can transform your messy lawn into a clean masterpiece!
Use Natural Methods To Keep Your House Mosquito-Free
Use natural ingredients like camphor, eucalyptus leaves, garlic and lavender to prevent mosquitoes from staying in your home. These natural items emanate strong odours that will keep the mosquitoes at bay. Mint and lavender oil actually do more than prevent mosquitoes – they also keep your home smelling fresh and amazing.
Use Mosquito Repellent
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This is a very important step. Use the mosquito repellent both indoors and outdoors. You always need to protect yourself because you never know when and where those pesky insects will attack you, so defending yourself against them is crucial.
Spray Your House
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Sprays like Ridsect or Shieldtox will kill those mosquitoes immediately, so always have one handy. Spray the outside of the house right before you exit or enter to clear out any hidden mosquitoes. It might not be the best smell in the world, but it is a good way to kill these pests and prevent the Zika virus from spreading in your home.
Cover Up Your Limbs
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To avoid getting infected by Zika, wear long-sleeved clothing to guard your body and slather all other exposed parts with mosquito repellant. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!
Make Your Own Mosquito Trap
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A DIY plastic bottle trap might help catch these mosquitoes. For ingredients, you will need:
- 1 2-litre plastic bottle
- 1 marker pen
- 1 box cutter
- 1 tape measure
- ¼ cup of brown sugar
- 1 gram yeast
- 1 cup of hot water
- 1 measuring cup
- Cut the bottle in half.
- Measure the ¼ cup of brown sugar.
- Heat up the hot water.
- Pour the hot water and sugar into the bottom half of the bottle.
- Allow mixture to cool.
- Add the yeast.
- Place top half of the cut bottle with the nozzle side down.
- Secure it with tape.
Whatever you do, don’t let your home be a breeding ground for Aedes mosquitoes. And if you need more help eradicating these nasty insects from your home, Kaodim can help you find a pest control company to rid your house of these mosquitoes and other pests. Our guys are well-equipped for the job, and will make it their mission to drive out all pests from your home so you and your household can dwell in comfort and safety. Stay safe, everyone!
written by Tashya Viknesh & Carissa Gan