According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (2016), a vaccination has not been found to prevent the Zika virus, a disease that has been transmitted to humans through mosquito bites from mosquitoes that are most active during the day. Zika has been found in many countries around the globe, and its range is expanding. The symptoms of Zika are generally mild, last about a week, and include fever, rash, joint pain, and/or conjunctivitis. Symptoms are generally so mild that many victims will not know they have been infected, but about 20% of those individuals who are bitten will develop Zika. The most concerning symptom of Zika affects pregnant women, whose babies may develop microcephaly.
In general, the CDC (2016) has recommended that people wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outside and apply insect repellant beforehand to avoid getting bitten. People who possibly have been infected with the Zika virus are urged to use a condom during sexual contact to avoid spreading the virus to others. In fact, some countries, such as El Salvador, have recommended that women avoid pregnancy for the next two years (The New York Times, 1/25/16). The CDC has also recommended that any vessels or containers of open water be protected from access to mosquitoes so that breeding cycles are disrupted. Brazil has begun a massive campaign to stop mosquitoes from accessing breeding grounds by closing their access to water collection systems and other sources of standing or still water. Could something like the Zika virus begin in your neighborhood?
In this Discussion, you will examine your neighborhood through the eyes of the public health nurse or a nurse epidemiologist.
To prepare for this Discussion:
- Walk around a two-block radius near where you live or work.
- Look to see if you can spot any areas where mosquitoes may reproduce. These sites may include abandoned tires, rainwater collection systems that have been installed at homes, parks or golf courses, low sections at roadsides or near sidewalks, and the like. You may include pictures of sites that you find to enhance your discussion thread.
- Note any positive or negative findings that you observe. Have steps been taken to prevent mosquito breeding?
- Find out what your community health department does for mosquito abatement.
- Discover who in your community you would contact to report deficiencies/negative findings.
- Determine what you can do, as a PHN, to change policy to reduce mosquito breeding grounds in your neighborhood.
Post your findings regarding mosquito breeding grounds in a two-block radius near where you live or work. Include any preventative strategies you can see that are already in place. Report on the role your local health department plays in mosquito abatement and to whom you would report negative findings. Then, describe your role as a BSN in changing policy to ensure a healthier climate (reduced mosquito breeding grounds) in your neighborhood.
Support your response with references from the professional nursing literature.
Note Initial Post: A 3-paragraph (at least 350 words) response. Be sure to use evidence from the readings and include in-text citations. Utilize essay-level writing practice and skills, including the use of transitional material and organizational frames. Avoid quotes; paraphrase to incorporate evidence into your own writing. A reference list is required. Use the most current evidence (usually ≤ 5 years old).
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
Zika virus, a disease transmitted through mosquito bites from mosquitoes that are most active during the day, has been found in many countries globally. While the symptoms are generally mild, it can affect pregnant women, and their babies may develop microcephaly. The CDC has recommended people to take preventive measures, including wearing long-sleeved shirts and applying insect repellent. This discussion revolves around examining mosquito breeding grounds in the neighborhood and taking steps to reduce them.
Mosquito Breeding Grounds in the Neighborhood:
In my neighborhood, there are several areas where mosquitoes can reproduce, including abandoned tires, low sections on roadsides, and near sidewalks. Even some homes have rainwater collection systems that may attract mosquitoes. However, there are several preventive strategies that are already in place. For example, the community maintains the parks and golf courses regularly and keeps them clean, avoiding standing or still water. Furthermore, most of the homes have installed mosquito nets on their windows and doors.
Role of the Health Department in Mosquito Abatement:
The Community Health Department plays a critical role in mosquito abatement. It has initiated several awareness campaigns and initiatives to control mosquito breeding grounds in the neighborhood. For example, they have set up specific teams that regularly check water collection systems, drains, and gutters in the locality. The Health Department also engages in regular fumigation to control mosquito populations.
Reporting Negative Findings:
If there are any negative findings or deficiencies related to mosquito breeding grounds in the neighborhood, one can report to the local health department. The community health department has designated teams and hotlines available to address such concerns. Additionally, the community health department holds community meetings to educate residents on finding and addressing mosquito breeding grounds.
Role of a BSN in Changing Policy:
As a Public Health Nurse, I can take steps to change policies to reduce mosquito breeding grounds in my neighborhood. First, I will collaborate with the community health department to raise awareness campaigns and workshops to educate residents about the dangers of mosquito-borne diseases. I will also work with community leaders to implement policies on controlling mosquito breeding grounds, like regularly checking water collection systems, and closing off sources of standing water. Moreover, I will participate in outreach programs to educate the public about using proper protective measures, such as applying insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants when going outside.
Conclusion:
Zika virus has become a global concern that requires a community effort to eliminate breeding grounds for mosquitoes. It is critical to identify breeding areas where mosquitoes can reproduce and take proactive steps to reduce them. Through a coordinated effort between the community health department, residents, and local health authorities, we can take the necessary steps to prevent such diseases’ spread.
