Zika virus

The Texas Department of State Health Services has reported a total of 23 confirmed Zika virus cases in Texas in the past two months, including 11 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.”

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.

“Instead, we will focus on educating our residents about the Zika virus, its potential impact and how to avoid exposure,” Fausek said.

In Harris County, all 10 confirmed cases of the Zika virus have been linked to those who have returned from traveling to Latin America.

While there is no vaccine for the Zika virus, officials with the Harris County Public Health and Environmental Services office released a statement in January encouraging those planning to travel abroad to visit their health care provider to learn more on how to prevent travel-related diseases.