-- With news about the Zika virus making headlines regularly, residents of Winston-Salem are more concerned than ever about mosquitoes. More than a summertime nuisance, the insects have become an object of fear as potential carriers of a frightening disease that, at this time, has no vaccine or cure. While earlier outbreaks of the virus occurred in Africa and Southeast Asia, it spread to South America in 2015, and now cases are being reported in the United States as well. Consequently, Go-Forth Pest & Lawn of Winston-Salem reports a significant increase in service calls for mosquito control.
"We've gotten an influx of calls regarding the zika virus, and we sympathize with our customers' concerns. It's a dangerous disease, especially for vulnerable populations," said company spokesperson Chase Hazelwood. While healthy adults are not at great risk of complications from the virus, infants, young children, and the elderly are more seriously affected. One of the biggest concerns is the risk of birth defects when pregnant women become infected. There is scientific evidence linking the Zika virus to microcephaly and Guillain-Barre syndrome, a rare autoimmune disorder.
According to the World Health Organization, preventing mosquito bites is the number one defense against the Zika virus. In addition to providing pest control service for concerned customers, Go-Forth also seeks to educate people regarding simple protective measures they can take. "We can treat your property," said Hazelwood, "but we can't protect you everywhere you go. That's why we recommend that people take some basic safety precautions, like wearing long sleeves and long pants outdoors, even though it's hot, and using mosquito repellent on exposed skin. People also need to be aware of - and stay away from - any standing water, which is where mosquitoes breed. Some of our customers live on property with naturally low-lying areas where water tends to collect. We make it a point to treat those areas even if we don't see any sign of mosquitoes. We try to prevent an infestation before it happens."
Symptoms of the virus include fever, rash, joint pain, headaches, and muscle pain. However, many people experience no symptoms or only mild symptoms. "While there is a legitimate cause for concern," Hazelwood concluded, "I don't think we need to panic. The products we use to eliminate mosquitoes are very effective, and our customers can feel safe."
About Go-Forth Pest & Lawn of Winston-Salem
Go-Forth Pest & Lawn of Winston-Salem was founded in 1959 in the Piedmont Triad area of North Carolina. It has now grown to have branches in Mooresville, Greensboro, Asheboro, High Point, Lexington, Burlington, Salisbury, and most recently Charlotte. It is a family-owned business now with its third-generation owner. Go-Forth Pest & Lawn of Winston-Salem strives to have profound professionalism and customer service that makes customers, employees, and the community proud to be associated with Go-Forth. It is home to the 2009, 2010, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015 NC Statewide Technician of the Year. Go-Forth is the only company in the state to be recognized with that track record.
Contact Info:
Name: Leah Hazelwood
Email: Send Email
Organization: Go-Forth Pest & Lawn of Winston-Salem
Address: 248 Konnoak Village Circle Winston-Salem, NC 27127
Phone: (336) 793-2999
Website: http://winstonsalempest.com
Release ID: 124380
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