Tropical Depression Updates: Florida Keys, Miami Brace for Heavy Rain That May Worsen Zika Virus Fight [MAP]
Tropical depression could gain strength in the Caribbean and lead to worsening Zika outbreaks because of rains and stagnant water near populated areas in the city.
A tropical depression brewing in the Caribbean is threatening to become a full-blown storm. It will also hit Florida with heavy rains and strong winds. Weather experts advise people who live in and or are interested in going to Florida to consider checking out the storm's development regularly and to take necessary precautions.
But the imminent tropical storm is just one of Florida's major headaches, as the state is also fighting outbreaks of the Zika virus. Reports say that although a tropical storm could blow Zika-causing mosquitoes away from the area, rains could also produce standing water, which is ideal breeding grounds for these pests. Joseph Conlon, adviser to the American Mosquito Control Association, said that rains could worsen Zika outbreaks in the area.
Storm threats reduced, latest info on Zika virus cases bared
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The unnamed tropical depression has been reported to have reduced in strength and was unable to organize itself to move to hurricane category. However, this is just one of the many potential hurricanes that could hit Florida considering hurricane season has just begun.
The tropical depression could still become stronger as it moves into the Gulf of Mexico next week. This may result in strong winds, rains, and flooding in the Gulf Coast.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said that hurricanes could make it difficult to control Zika. There have been 43 cases of Zika reported in the counties of Miami-Dade and Palm Beach. The virus is dangerous to pregnant women and their unborn child since these cause life-threatening birth defects.
Governor Rick Scott assured that the behavior of the Caribbean storm is being closely monitored. He mentioned that their priority at this moment is protecting pregnant women as well as their developing babies. The Florida governor said that they are doing the best they can to get rid of standing water, and to remind residents to wear bug repellent and take part in mosquito control projects.
Aggressive mosquito control strategies
Gov. Scott's aggressive campaign to remove mosquitoes that cause Zika could help reduce the spread of the disease, considering that the particular mosquito species prefers to breed near populated areas. Experts explain that the Aedes aegypti lives near people and breed in man-made containers such as flower pots, inside discarded tires, bird baths, and so on. Zika-causing mosquitoes do not breed in salt marshes.
Strong storms could also cut power in communities which will lead to people opening their windows and doors to cool off. This places them at risk of getting the Zika virus. And of course, a hurricane could divert all resources and medical aid to victims, which will stall the diagnosis and fight of the Zika virus. State and county officials will place their mosquito control efforts on hold because of a storm.
