About the Zika Virus 

Earlier this year, we published a blog post about the growing concern over the spread of the Zika virus. Since then, the topic has had extensive media coverage including an unprecendented Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) travel warning earlier this week which advised pregnant women not to travel to a specific area near downtown Miami, FL. 

The Zika virus is a mosquito-transmitted disease. Most people infected with Zika won't even know they have the disease because they won't have any symptoms. However, when symptoms are present, they commonly include fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). These symptoms usually last anywhere from 2 to 7 days on average.  According to the CDC, a direct link has been confirmed between Zika virus and microcephaly in newborn babies and a rare immune system disorder called Guillain-Barre syndrome. 

The vast majority of cases of Zika in the United States have been from travel to other countries where the virus is actively circulating, a total of more than 60 countries and territories.

The good news is that mosquito control can be accomplished by developing an effective plan and using the right spray equipment.

Spray Equipment: Mosquito Control

Research has shown that mist and/or fog offer the better coverage for mosquito control. That's why foggers are usually the number one weapon when it comes to fighting mosquitoes. We recommend Hudson's line of foggers and ultra low volume (ULV) sprayers. They produce some of the finest mist and fog, with a droplet size from 20 to 60 microns* that will stick to even the smallest mosquitoes. 

To perform an even more effective application, a fogger coupled with perimeter spraying will yield the best results. Why is a fogger not enough? Well, mosquito breeding sites are down at ground level. A spot sprayer or a skid sprayer can help you spray those hard to reach areas and spray directly around fences, flower beds, and roof lines. 

In-stock and ready to ship, we offer a variety of sprayers in different price ranges that can be used for effective mosquito control: 

Hudson 99598 Fog® Electric Atomizer Sprayer

• Approved for indoor/outdoor use
• Adjustable output of 1.5 - 14 gallons per hour
• Includes large commercial coiled hose for directing ULV chemical mist
• Operates on 110V AC power
• Lightweight poly tank - 2 gallon
• Outputs 22-46 microns particle size - average droplet 20 micron

List Price: $345.99

Our Price: $252.57

Hudson 93599 XP-60™ Power ULV Sprayer

• Pro-grade throttle assembly, one hand operation
• Easy prime 4 stroke engine - lightweight, low decibel rating
• Strong impeller blows at 145 mph, swath coverage of up to 150 feet
• Stainless steel and brass nozzle system delivers small particles for low volume spraying
• 17 oz. poly tank for unleaded fuel only
• Treats 20 acres and operates for 60 minutes
• Spray control range of 30 microns to larger droplets of 60 microns

List Price: $1692.99

Our Price: $1,235.88

Hudson 98600A Porta-Pak™ Ultra Low Volume Applicator

• Covers extremely large areas with very little spray material
• Motor and large, specially designed fan generate powerful, high volume air stream that drives micron size (18-75) droplets
• Covers swath up to 75 feet (23 m) wide and 50 feet (15 m) high
• Uses concentrated pesticide so there is no water mixing or carrying required
• Ideal for use in orchards and groves, inside large warehouses, feedlots, etc
• Easily carried on applicator's back

List Price: $2777.99

Our Price: $2,027.93

Preventing Mosquitoes

A good mosquito control plan should include the following strategies:  

• Mow weedy areas around yard
• Thin out overgrown shrubs 
• Ensure all potential entry points through windows, walls and doors are sealed
• Install window and door screens
• Dump any standing water paying close attention to birdbaths, potted plants, dog bowls, tin cans, and tires that can accumulate water

For more information on the Zika virus, the CDC official website is a comprehensive resource to stay updated on the latest news. 

* Varies by models