Viral Diseases That A Mosquito Can Carry

Springtime can bring out some of the most annoying pests. One being the mosquito. In the state of Georgia there are only three main species of mosquitos; the Aedes, Culex, and the Anopheles Mosquito. Unfortunately, these three types of mosquitoes are just as dangerous as the other 176 species. They have been known to carry a number of diseases including; yellow fever, dengue fever, Chikungunya fever, West Nile virus, and malaria. Lookout Pest Control, formerly Any Pest Inc., breaks down each of these viral diseases and ways to avoid them.

Mosquito Season

With Georgia’s warm climate, “mosquito season” generally lasts from March to October. The majority of mosquito activity is during the warmer Spring and Summer months. Depending on rainfall and temperatures in a given year, mosquitos may become active at different times.

Mosquito-Borne Diseases

• Yellow Fever –  Symptoms take normally 3–6 days to develop and include fever, chills, headache, backache, and muscle aches. About 15% of people who get yellow fever develop serious illness that can lead to bleeding, shock, organ failure, and sometimes death.
• Dengue Fever – Dengue is spread to people through the Aedes species. Forty percent of the world’s population, about 3 billion people, live in areas with a risk of dengue. Common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, rash or Aches and pains.
• Chikungunya – The most common symptoms of infection are fever and joint pain. Other symptoms may include headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, or rash.
• West Nile Virus – Most people infected with West Nile virus will not have many symptoms. Roughly one in five people who contract West Nile will develop a fever and other symptoms. Less than 1% of those infected develop a serious, sometimes fatal, neurologic illness.
• Malaria – A common disease caused by mosquitos. People with malaria often experience fever, chills, and flu-like illness. If left untreated, malaria can turn into severe complications and potential death.

Ways To Prevent Mosquitos

• Remove Standing Water – Any pools or puddles around your home or yard can quickly become a mosquito breeding ground. Be sure to store flower pots or any unused containers upside down. Make sure rain is not accumulating on trash can lids. Change water in bird baths weekly and empty out and kids pools. Finally, a pro tip is to unclog any roof gutters to avoid mosquitos.
• Repellants – The most effective chemical repellents contain DEET, picaridin, PMD, or IR3535 insecticide, which are all considered safe when used as directed.
• The Right Clothing – Loose clothes are better to prevent mosquito bites.
• Stay Indoors During Peak Hours – While mosquitoes can bite at any time of day, it’s wise to limit exposure during feeding times. Typical mosquitoes in Georgia are more active at dawn and dusk.
• Keep Mosquitos Outside – A great way to prevent bites is the use of screens on your windows. A useful tool for outdoor areas are mosquito nets. These are two sure ways to minimize contact.
• Fan – A simple and easy way to prevent mosquitos is the use of a fan. These pests are generally not great flyers so a constant wind keeps them from landing and biting your skin.

Call Lookout Pest Control Today

Spring is the time to start combating mosquitoes and reclaim your yard! Depending on seasonal temperatures, mosquito activity can last into October. We can help with professional mosquito control treatments tailored to your home or business. Our botanical treatments are applied to bushes, shrubs, trees and all common natural surfaces around your home where mosquitoes are most likely to land. Natural water sources where mosquitoes breed can also be treated for prevention. If you do have a mosquito infestation, be sure to contact Lookout Pest Control to perform a mosquito treatment on your home or commercial property. Lookout Pest Control can inspect, identify, and treat the problem.