According to experts, the chances of Zika-carrying mosquitoes in Idaho are "slim to none." The remark comes after the US reported 4 Zika cases in Florida.
The Zika virus, which spreads mostly by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito, can cause serious birth defects to the fetus of a pregnant lady, including brain and nerve disorders. Currently, there is no vaccination or medicine available for prevention or treatment.
Ed Burnett, Director of the Canyon County Mosquito Abatement District, who is conducting surveillance on these mosquitoes along with his team, explained how climate would most likely prevent the virus from making its way to the northwestern state of Idaho.
"They're pretty much a sub-tropical mosquito," says Burnet. "While the temperatures are hot enough right now, the Zika mosquito prefers humid climates."
He and his team are currently combating West Nile Virus carrying mosquitoes of which have been found in both the Ada and Canyon counties.
Despite the reassurances, Burnett pointed out that the threat of the virus is here to stay for the whole of August.
To keep the West Nile Virus at bay, one should not deposit even a small amount of water as the mosquitoes are reportedly found there, he said. Their presence was also found inside cans where its lid wasn't shut tight.
"They are an opportunistic producer. They'll pick any place they can with a little bit of standing water that's hot and warm," Burnett explains.
According to New York Times, there are now more than 1,600 confirmed Zika cases in the continental United States. Cases in the U.S. have been spread by mosquitoes in South Florida.