About the Zika Virus 

You've probably heard about the Zika virus in the news recently. The media coverage has been extensive due to how fast it's spreading and its alarming effects on newborns. However, just in case you've missed it, let's go over a quick recap to learn all about the Zika virus.

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 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (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 CDC's latest numbers report 358 cases of Zika virus in the United States and 475 in US territories. With temperatures rising and summer just around the corner, mosquito season will soon be in full swing, and those numbers are predicted to rapidly increase. The good news is that you can be ready to control mosquitoes 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 to fit your budget. Don't be caught unprepared, be ready to effectively control mosquitoes and protect public health with these mosquito-control sprayers:

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

Provide your customers with a comprehensive treatment plan to control mosquitoes around their yard and home. Follow these suggestions for an effective control strategy: 

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

Learn more by visiting our previous post on best management practices for mosquito control. For more information on the Zika virus, the CDC official website is a comprehensive resource to stay updated on the latest news and learn how to protect your community.

* Varies by models