Mosquitoes, including Aedes aegypti, spread Zika virus.

Mosquitoes can carry dangerous diseases including a virus called the Zika virus. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Zika illness is generally mild with a rash, fever and joint pain, but the bigger concern among health officials is the possible link between the virus and harm to unborn babies if the expectant mother contracts the virus during pregnancy. 

The CDC recommends

that pregnant women who have traveled to countries with local-transmission of Zika undergo antibody testing for the virus. It is also recommended that women who are pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant postpone travel to countries where Zika is being locally transmitted.

STEPS YOU CAN TAKE TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM MOSQUITO BORNE VIRUSES

Residents, business owners and visitors to take steps to protect themselves from mosquito borne viruses and prevent their spread. Floridians are urged to drain standing water weekly that has collected at their homes or businesses, no matter how small the container. Mosquitoes breed by laying eggs in and near standing water, a couple drops of water in a bottle cap is enough to become a breeding location. Keep gutters, flower pots and saucers free of standing water. Flush out water holding plants such as bromeliads, and overturn anything that could hold water such as buckets, toys, pool covers, birdbaths, tires, recycle bins and pet dishes. To keep mosquitoes outside, be sure to keep doors and windows shut, use screening on all windows and repair holes in screens immediately. Residents and visitors also need to use repellents or cover up with long-sleeved shirts and long pants when enjoying the Florida outdoors.

Florida Department of Health Public Service Announcement Videos:

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Drain & Cover

The Broward County Mosquito Control Division sprays areas with reported concentrations of mosquitoes, frequently check known mosquito breeding sites, treat standing water and spray in areas requested by residents. To request mosquito spraying in your neighborhood, please use the online Mosquito Spray Request Form or call Broward County at 954.765.4062.

If you have additional questions about the Zika virus, go to the Florida Department of Health website at zikafreefl.org