Confirmed Cases of Chikungunya Fever in Florida and Georgia

ATLANTA (June 23, 2014) – Florida and Georgia have confirmed cases of chikunguyna fever, a mosquito-borne illness that has migrated to the U.S. from the Caribbean and according to the CDC, a total of 80 cases have been reported nationwide as of June 17^th. Experts are concerned that conditions could be ideal for significant outbreak of this disease in the coming months as two of the species of mosquitoes that are known to transmit the disease have huge populations across the Southeast.

Symptoms of chikunguyna include fever, joint pain, muscle pain, headache, nausea, fatigue and rash. In addition to this latest health concern, mosquitoes are also known to transmit West Nile Virus and Encephalitis. These potentially dangerous pests are at their peak numbers in the summer months and Arrow Exterminators, a local pest and termite control company, is reaching out to educate the public about what they can do to control mosquito infestations and protect their families.

Arrow Exterminators recommends the following simple, proactive measures:

• Eliminate all sources of standing water around the home and neighborhood such as children's wading pools, birdbaths and flower pots.
• Keep rain gutters cleaned out and properly draining away from the home.
• Cut back or remove unnecessary vegetation around the home where mosquitoes nest.
• When swimming pools aren’t in use, keep them covered to prevent mosquitoes from laying their eggs.
• Remove water that has collected in tree holes and hollow stumps.
• Screen windows and doors to prevent mosquitoes from getting inside homes.
• Be alert when going outdoors at dusk or dawn, as mosquitoes are at their peak activity.
• When outdoors, apply insect repellent containing (DEET) on exposed skin.
• Consider contacting a local Pest Control Professional to see if they offer Mosquito Control Services in your area.