Do The Mosquitoes In Woodlands Carry Deadly Disease?
Most people are not aware that mosquitoes are one of the deadliest animals on the planet. These deadly insects, ¼ to ⅜ inches long, often fly about undetected due to their small size until they bite, that is. They are mostly gray, have thin, oval bodies and antennae.
Mosquitoes survive off the blood of people and animals and are known to carry many diseases worldwide. Though it is true, not every mosquito bite results in infection; however, their bites can be itchy and painful regardless. If you have a mosquito problem in your Woodlands yard, chances are you have been forced out of your own backyard by these annoying pests.
What You Need To Know About Mosquito-Borne West Nile Virus And The Zika Virus
The West Nile virus is the most common mosquito-borne illness in the United States. There are currently no vaccines or medicines to prevent or cure the West Nile virus. Most people infected with the West Nile virus never actually experience symptoms. Only one out of five people infected will develop fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash. Even less common, one out of 150 people infected with the West Nile virus will develop more severe symptoms that can even be fatal.
The Zika virus is often associated with travel outside of the United States; however, it has been present in Georgia. The Zika virus can often go undetected. Only some of those infected will develop symptoms such as fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis. Rarely can the virus cause a nervous system disease. The Zika virus is notoriously dangerous for pregnant women and their unborn babies. There is currently no vaccine or medication to prevent or cure the Zika virus.
Who Is Most At-Risk For The La Crosse And Saint Louis Encephalitis Viruses?
The La Crosse and Saint Louis Encephalitis viruses are also mosquito-borne illnesses, although rare, that sometimes occur in Texas.
La Crosse encephalitis affects people differently. Oftentimes there are no symptoms, but in other cases, the infected person will suffer from headaches, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. La Crosse encephalitis can also affect the nervous system, cause seizures and partial paralysis. It most commonly affects children under the age of 16.
The Saint Louis encephalitis virus can affect people of all ages but is more prominent in the elderly. Symptoms of Saint Louis encephalitis virus are headache, high fever, stiff neck, tremors, disorientation, convulsions, spastic paralysis, and coma. There is currently no vaccine or medication to treat the Saint Louis encephalitis virus.
What Is The Best Way To Protect Your Family From Mosquito-Borne Illness?
It is always important to be aware of ways to protect your family from potential harm. Eliminating mosquitoes from your property falls into that same category. Knowing what draws mosquitoes into your yard can be the first defense against these potentially life-threatening pests:
Inspect your yard for standing water. This includes low spots, toys, and overturned garbage can lids that can collect rainwater. Empty birdbaths regularly to decrease the chance of a mosquito infestation starting.
Keep mosquitoes out of your home. Install new window and door screens where necessary. Repair holes and tears, and install weather stripping for a tight seal.
Avoid going outside at dusk and dawn. These are the most active times of day for mosquitoes. If you must go out, consider wearing DEET or lighter-colored clothing as mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors.
Call Modern Pest Control for assistance.
If you find yourself with an unbearable mosquito problem, don’t risk putting your family in harm’s way. Call Modern Pest Control, and let our pest professionals take away the worry of mosquito-borne illnesses that may affect your family. We provide a seasonal mosquito service using the latest products and technologies. Call us today!