Zika Update

The first case of female-to-male sexual transmission of the Zika virus has been documented. What this means is that the virus could spread more easily than previously thought. Texas A&M Entomologists have been working hard to prepare for this summer and make sure everyone is protected with the right information.

Dr. Mike Merchant has summarized all of the fact sheets Agrilife Extension has on Zika in his blog, Insects in the City . I've listed them below.

• Zika Precautions for Women (ENTO-053) is a new publication outlining the most important steps women can take to protect themselves and their unborn children from Zika.  Protecting women is the top priority for public health agencies this summer.
• What Texans Need to Know About Zika Virus (ENTO-052) General information about Zika, what causes it, whether you should be worried, and how to stop it. (Spanish Version) 
• Mosquitoes and the Diseases they Transmit (ENTO-040) Provides an overview of all important disease carrying mosquitoes in Texas.  Revised in 2016. (Spanish Version) 
• Buzz Off (ENTO-055) A short reminder of the 4-Ds, the four ways to avoid mosquito bites.  A quick safety reminder for yourself and employees.
• DIY Backyard Mosquito Control (ENTO-054)  An overview of all the mosquito control options available to consumers, including hiring a professional.  Advantages and disadvantages of each option are listed, including what we know and don't know about the many products out there.  (Spoiler alert: don't buy bug zappers for mosquito control--they don't kill many mosquitoes)