Thursday, 28 Mar 2024

Diseases That Monquitos Can Carry

Mosquitos are definitely a nuisance and a pest. Not only that, but they can be dangerous to your health. These bloodsuckers can transmit a variety of diseases, some of which are potentially lethal to human beings.

Mosquitos prefer wet, humid, and warm parts of the world. For that reason, they are abundant throughout the Sunshine State. Fortunately, you can contact a professional for help if you are seeking midge and mosquito control Sarasota County Fl.

Mosquito Lifecycle and Preferred Habitat

Mosquitos lay their eggs in warm, shallow, still waters. Swamps, marshes, ponds, even rain-filled potholes or overturned garbage can covers are useful breeding locations for these flying pests. They can even reproduce in damp areas inside of a home.

Once the eggs hatch, they rapidly move into the larva (also known as a “wriggler“), pupa, and adult stages. The entire lifecycle of the mosquito takes only 8 to 14 days. Only the female adults feed off animal blood. The males actually feed on nectar. although human blood is often taken, other mammals can supply their blood food as well. 

Diseases That Mosquitos Can Carry

A number of diseases can be transmitted by mosquitos. These include:

  • Malaria
  • Dengue Virus
  • Chikungunya Virus
  • Encephalitis (several varieties)
  • West Nile Virus
  • Yellow Fever, and 
  • Zika Virus.

Malaria, West Nile Virus, and the various Encephalitises can be fatal. Yellow Fever is very rare in the U.S. In some parts of the world, Dengue Virus is a leading cause of illness. The Sika and Chikungunya Viruses can make you sick but rarely causes death. 

The best way to prevent getting sick from mosquitos is to stay away from them. Wear long clothing, use insect repellant, and avoid going out at dawn or dusk in mosquito-prone areas.  Drain or dry wet areas, especially around the home. Contact a professional exterminator to eradicate a mosquito infestation.