Writer: Paul Schattenberg, 210-859-5752, paschattenberg@ag.tamu.edu
Contact: Wizzie Brown, 512-854-9600, ebrown@ag.tamu.edu
AUSTIN – The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service in Travis County is presenting an informational seminar on Zika from 10 a.m. to noon Sept. 22 at its offices at 1600-B Smith Road in Austin.
The seminar is free and open to the public. It will provide information on the Zika virus and on mosquitoes and their management.
Aedes mosquitoes, the principal vectors of Zika virus, are small dark mosquitoes with distinct white bands on the legs. (Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service photo by Dr. Mike Merchant)
“The Zika virus is spread mainly by the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, both of which can be found in Central Texas,” said Wizzie Brown, AgriLife Extension entomologist, Travis County. “It is a very real threat to unborn babies, causing microcephaly and a variety of neurological diseases. There is no cure, but there are ways people can reduce the risk of getting the Zika virus.”
Brown said with recent cases in Florida stemming from local mosquitoes, experts warn it is a possibility the same will occur in Texas.
“The presentation should be about one hour, leaving plenty of time for questions, “ Brown said.
Seating is limited, so attendees should call or email to reserve a seat. For more information and to reserve, contact Brown at 512-854-9606 or ebrown@ag.tamu.edu.
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