Pest Management Companies Prepare for Zika

The Orlando Sentinel recently ran a front-page article about Massey Services and other pest management companies preparing for an increase in demand for mosquito abatement services this year because of fears related to the Zika virus, which can lead to birth defects in pregnant women.

Reporter Paul Brinkmann noted that the mosquito-borne illness has arrived in the United States just in time for mosquito season, which begins when the heavier rains start in May or June.

The article points out that the 100 Zika cases in Florida have been attributed to travelers who contracted the virus in other countries.

Massey Services’ Vice President for Quality Assurance Adam Jones, who was interviewed for the article, said, “We’re getting a significant increase in customer leads inquiring about mosquito-abatement services on their property, around the U.S.”

According to Jones, pest management companies could play a major role if there were an outbreak. State mosquito-control districts have limited staff and resources which could be overwhelmed if emergency funding was approved. “The state districts don’t have the manpower; we have the army of people,” Jones said.

Jones said that public understanding of the Zika virus is incomplete. The threat of Zika is real, but only as real as historic mosquito-borne diseases like malaria, chikungunya or Dengue fever.

Massey’s mosquito abatement program targets mosquitoes where they live and breed – dense vegetation, under patio decks and other areas with poor air circulation.

Contact Massey Services for a free inspection and learn about our mosquito abatement treatment options.