Zika virus

The Texas Department of State Health Services has reported a total of 14 confirmed Zika virus cases in Texas in the past two months, including seven in the Greater Houston Area.

While Texans are no strangers to mosquitoes and the viruses they can carry, the species that carry the Zika virus primarily bite during the day, as opposed to the West Nile virus-carrying species that bite at night.

“It is important to note that while we are talking about a different disease, the same precautions should be taken regarding mosquitoes,” said Justin Fausek, Montgomery County Precinct 3 environmental foreman. “We strongly encourage everyone to eliminate standing water on their property and to wear insect repellent when going outside for any length of time.”

Chris Nunes, director of parks and recreation for The Woodlands Township, said keeping up with lawn and pool maintenance is crucial in preventing mosquitoes from breeding.

Residential areas are typically sprayed at night because the weather is a little cooler and fewer people are outside, Fausek said. However, the spray formula would have little to no effect on the species carrying the Zika virus.

“In light of this, we are not planning to increase the frequency of our spraying activities in response to the Zika virus,” Fausek said. “Instead, we will focus on educating our residents about the Zika virus, its potential impact and how to avoid exposure.”