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Neglecting your lawn can be more dangerous than you think. Grass that isn't mowed can be filled with dangerous insects including Zika virus causing mosquitos. Zika is an infectious virus that stems from the bites of the Aedes or yellow fever mosquito. The virus causes many symptoms including, joint pain, mild fever, conjunctivitis and most notably, skin rash. It can be spread between human beings and is especially a concern for pregnant women, as the virus is known to cause birth defects.
The virus is found in 50 countries, but a recent influx of cases in South America and the southern United States has been cause for great concern. Tall grass and weeds are attractors and breeding grounds for infectious mosquitos, which has caused residents in states such as Texas and Florida to go on high alert. Additionally, neglected lawns can serve as "resting spots" for mosquitos and increase the chances of them breeding there. If you're mowing the lawn in St. Petersburg or Tampa Florida you especially needs to be caution.
Zika Virus Overview:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Virus Name | Zika Virus |
| Carrier | Aedes Mosquito |
| Symptoms | Joint pain, mild fever, conjunctivitis, skin rash |
| High-Risk Groups | Pregnant women (due to risk of birth defects) |
| Geographic Prevalence | 50 countries, with recent influx in South America and the southern United States |
Breeding Grounds For Mosquitos
There are several places in and around the yard that can be breeding grounds for mosquitos, including bird baths, clogged rain gutters, tree knot holes, potted plant saucers, open garbage cans, uncovered boats, neglected swimming pools, pet bowls and of course a neglected lawn. Even a small amount of water (capful) can cause a boom in a mosquito population.
The Aedes mosquito is mainly a container breeder, meaning it can reproduce in these small pools of water, so checking for standing water and lawn care is a must. Tall grass locks in moisture between the blades, which provides a conducive environment for mosquito breeding. This means that regular mowing is a must to effectively control the length of grass blades.
| Breeding Ground | Description |
|---|---|
| Bird Baths | Standing water can breed mosquitos. |
| Clogged Rain Gutters | Collect water, providing a breeding ground. |
| Neglected Lawns | Tall grass retains moisture and facilitates breeding. |
| Potted Plant Saucers | Accumulate water, ideal for mosquito breeding. |
| Neglected Swimming Pools | Stagnant water serves as a large breeding site. |
What the States and the Government are Doing to Promote Lawn Care for Fighting Against Zika
In the city of Austin there is the "Fight the Bite" campaign that promotes the mowing of lawns to get rid of weeds and tall grass as an added defense against Zika. This promotion is so important in the city of Austin because 76 cases have been reported there, including three pregnant women, an infant that was infected before birth and the first death from the virus in United States. A Zika Virus Preparedness and Response plan was also enacted by the Texas Department of Health Services on June 20th, 2016.
Government agencies have urged Austin residents to keep the mosquito population down by mowing lawns and eliminating breeding grounds, which will in turn lower the number of infections in the area. Many states, like Florida have also offered checklists and tips for protecting yards from mosquito infestations and weeding, treating and trimming lawns regularly.
What Individuals can do in their Own Lawns to Fight Against the Zika Virus
To keep everyone safe, individuals must do their part by mowing lawns and managing these insects in their yards, the parks and the playgrounds. Keeping mosquitos out of yards and play areas only requires a few things:
• Searching for possible mosquito breeding grounds
• Getting rid of standing water in and around the yard
• Mowing the lawn regularly to eliminate large breeding areas
• Treating mowed lawns with mosquito repellent or hiring a professional to do so
Hiring a professional to treat the lawn for mosquitos can prove to be expensive, so DIY treatment may be the best option for many homeowners. DIY pests control requires several steps that a homeowner should know about. These steps include:
• Integrating pest control into the lawn care routine by removing weeds routinely, mowing the lawn routinely and removing all standing water and sources of standing water.
• Purchasing an EPA-approved repellant, which ensures it will work for repelling mosquitos exclusively. The product should also say that it's used to control Aedes mosquito populations or Zika-spreading mosquitos.
• Reading and following the directions on the repellent's label, and contacting the local mosquito control district or extension office if there are any questions.
• Wearing gloves and safety glasses to protect the skin and eyes from the repellant.
• Only attempting to apply when children and pets are safely out of the area, although the repellant isn't harmful to anything other than these insects. Remember that the safest application procedures should always be followed.
• Weeding and mowing the lawn then applying the treatments.
DIY Mosquito Repellent Application Steps
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Identify | Locate all potential mosquito breeding sites |
| 2. Eliminate | Remove standing water |
| 3. Mow and Treat | Regular lawn mowing followed by treatment with mosquito repellent |
| 4. Safety Precautions | Use gloves and safety glasses; ensure children and pets are away during application |
| 5. Apply | Follow repellent label instructions; contact local authorities if unsure |
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I mow my lawn to prevent mosquito breeding?
The ideal timing to mow your lawn varies with how quickly your grass grows, but as a rule of thumb, trimming it once every one to two weeks when it's growing actively is a good practice. This keeps the grass short enough to deter mosquitos from settling in.
Are there any natural remedies to reduce mosquito populations in my yard?
Introducing plants that naturally repel mosquitos, such as citronella, lavender, marigolds, and catnip, can make a noticeable difference. Additionally, attracting animals that feed on mosquitos, like bats and specific birds, to your yard can further help in reducing their numbers.
Can Zika virus affect pets or other animals?
Zika virus primarily affects humans and is transmitted by mosquitoes. There’s limited evidence to suggest that Zika affects pets or other animals. However, protecting your pets from mosquito bites is always a good practice to prevent other mosquito-borne diseases.
TL;DR: Fighting Zika with Lawn Care
Neglecting lawn maintenance can increase the risk of Zika virus transmission, a concern highlighted by the rise in cases in South America and the southern United States. The Zika virus, spread by the Aedes mosquito, can cause severe health issues, including birth defects in infants born to infected mothers. Mosquitos breed in tall grass and standing water, making unkempt yards a hotspot for these dangerous insects.
Key Points:
- Preventive Measures: Regular lawn mowing and removing standing water are crucial steps in eliminating mosquito breeding grounds.
- Government Initiatives: Places like Austin, Texas, have launched campaigns like "Fight the Bite" to encourage residents to maintain their lawns and participate in community efforts to reduce Zika risks.
- Individual Actions: Homeowners should integrate pest control into their lawn care routines, use EPA-approved repellents, and follow safety precautions when applying these products.
While the symptoms of Zika may be mild for some, the risk it poses to pregnant women and the broader community is significant. By taking simple steps to maintain lawns and eliminate mosquito breeding sites, individuals can play a vital role in preventing the spread of this virus. It's a small effort for a significant impact in the fight against Zika.
Let’s take action, one lawn at a time, to safeguard our health and communities.
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