How a Lighting Company is Fighting Zika Posted on February 26, 2017June 23, 2021 by Amanda Wolf A Florida-based lighting company believes it has the perfect tool to combat mosquitoes and Zika: light emitting diodes or LEDs. According to Fortune magazine, Lighting Science Group is working with a U.S. Department of Agriculture lab to test light-based bug traps. These light traps can be effective in preventing Zika from spreading because mosquitoes are attracted to different light wavelengths. Researchers are increasing their focus on the Aedes aegypti mosquito subspecies, as they are most commonly linked with Zika. As of May 2016, LED traps were being tested in USDA-controlled habitats. An LED trap has the potential to reduce reliance on harmful bug spray and only capture mosquitoes carrying Zika or other harmful diseases. The development of this trap further showcases the importance and benefits of LED lighting. What Is Zika? The Zika virus is mostly spread by mosquitoes and common symptoms include joint pain, fever, rash, red eyes, headaches and muscle pain, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While most individuals never become sick enough to warrant medical attention, symptoms can last for at least a week, depending on how dire the situation is. There is currently no medicine or vaccine for Zika. Pregnant women are most at risk because Zika can lead to birth defects during pregnancy, such as microcephaly and other brain diseases. The CDC stated other birth defects include impaired growth, eye defects and hearing deficits. How can LED Traps be Effective? Millions of individuals across the globe are currently at risk of contracting Zika, according to the World Health Organization. If environmental conditions continue to warm, mosquitoes will have an easier time surviving near populated areas. LEDs can play a helpful role capturing mosquitoes because LED traps reduce the need for pesticides and large quantities of bug spray. In an interview with Fortune, Travis Longcore, a professor at the University of Southern California, said the biggest benefit of LED traps is their controllability. It’s simply not feasible to always rely on sprays to combat mosquitoes. Lighting Science Group is trying to determine how various light spectrums can either attract or distract mosquitoes. Researchers first have to find how insects react to specific wavelengths because there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Automation can also be an important part of LED traps, as the devices would be able to pick up on nearby insects, like mosquitoes, and capture them. An automated trap would be able distract nonharmful bugs like butterflies. If tests are successful, consumers should be able to purchase LED bug traps within the next year. Read more: Massive Growth Projected for LED Lighting LED Lighting: A Changing Industry Cities Improving Safety with New LED Streetlights LED Lighting: Changing How We Light Outdoor Spaces Product Listings Matter in LED Retrofits What Effects do LEDs Have on Bats? Lights in Las Vegas to be Powered by Interesting Method Why Hotels Must Invest in LEDs Night Golfing? Yes, Please! LEDs Making it a Reality E-commerce offerings: (Contact a Customer Service Representative for additional selections, options, and solutions) LED Emergency/Exit LED Recessed Downlights LED Fixtures LED Drivers LED Lamps Wiring Devices and Lighting Controls Call and let us help meet all of your supply needs (866-483-7289). Did you know that any customer is eligible for online ordering? All you need to do is fill out this online form. Key benefits include: Order anytime, 24/7, 365 days a year. If you can connect, you can place an order. Create order templates, aka “My Lists.” Reduce search time, click, order, done. Track purchase history and view your account information. You can review invoices any time, track purchase history, and print or download records.
