veillance to monitor for mosquitoes that may transmit disease,
including the Zika virus. Although local transmission of Zika
virus through the bite of a mosquito has not been identified
in the continental United States, the U.S. mainland does have
two species of mosquitoes that can become infected with and
spread Zika virus. The primary vector for transmitting Zika, the
Aedes aegypti mosquito, is not established in Ohio and is found
in the Southeastern States. A possible second vector, the Aedes
albopictus mosquito, also known as the Asian Tiger mosquito, is
rarely found in Northeast Ohio.
collects in artificial containers (tires, buckets, garbage cans, flower
pots, children's toys, etc.). Residents can help reduce the local
mosquito population by removing any type of container that can
hold enough water for a week or more.
Zika virus in the U.S. would have to start with the introduction
of infected persons, who would need to be once again bitten
(within a week of becoming ill) by the specific mosquito species
mentioned previously. These infected mosquitoes could then
transmit the virus when they bite and feed on others.
widespread local transmission of Zika here, in Northeast Ohio.
encephalitis. We need to be aware that these mosquito-borne
diseases are still here and that we must take necessary precau-
tions to help prevent mosquito bites, especially in mid-to-late
summer and early fall.
1. Disposing of containers that collect water (tires, buckets, cans,
3. Repairing leaky outdoor faucets that leave puddles
4. Emptying and refilling bird baths at least once a week
5. Cleaning, draining and covering pools or hot tubs if not in use
6. Covering rain barrels and unclogging all gutters so they drain
8. Tightly screening all openings of your home
9. Keeping children indoors during times of peak mosquito
repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or lemon eucalyptus oil and
following label directions.