Mosquitoes are just the worst. These small, grayish insects with long, segmented legs are most well-known for the oversized proboscises through which they feed. Mosquitoes can often be found outdoors, in close proximity to sources of water, like birdbaths and empty flower pots. Drawn to these sources as the breeding ground for their offspring, the mosquitoes who aren’t caring for their young just might be new adults risen recently from the water.
The Deadliest Mosquito-Borne Diseases In The World
The mosquito is infamous as a nuisance, but it is, in reality, much more deadly than any other creature on Earth. Why? It all circles back to the pest’s status as a carrier of a nearly countless number of viral infections. After all, it feeds by stabbing its proboscis directly into an individual’s bloodstream! If you dare, prepare to learn more about the major diseases the mosquito carries:
- Chikungunya is a very dangerous affliction, as it currently has no vaccine. It causes fevers, headaches, and severe joint pain.
- Dengue is a hemorrhagic fever that kills around 25,000 people a year. It triggers a terrible skin rash and a high fever.
- Malaria is one of the most commonly known mosquito-spread diseases, and for good reason. It affects over two hundred million people every year and triggers vomiting and fatigue.
- The West Nile virus is easily reminiscent of Africa’s Nile River, but is, in fact, the most prevalent mosquito-borne ailment in the continental United States, causing diarrhea, skin rashes, and headaches.
- Yellow fever is a fast-acting affliction, typically causing symptoms as fast as three to six days. Chills, muscle pain, and nausea are among the negative effects of this virus.
- The Zika virus is an awful flavivirus that is not currently recorded in America but is alive and well in its home continent of Africa. Symptoms include fevers, rashes, and joint pain.
Steps For Avoiding Mosquitos All Around Your Pensacola Property
We don’t blame you if you’d rather avoid mosquitoes around the yard for the rest of your life — but how should you go about it? Take a few tips from the experts at EnSec Pest & Lawn. We know how you can fix enticing prospects around the property, what you need to need to avoid when you’re outside, and when.
- Mosquitoes love open water around potential human food sources. For example, if you have any empty flower pots lying around, empty them of water and leave them in such a way that they will not continue to gather rainfall in the future.
- When you go outside, you just might attract thirsty mosquitoes because of the colors you wear. The pests find darker colors particularly intriguing, so limit your wardrobe to lighter, less enticing shades or bundle up with long, loose sleeves that will naturally protect your limbs from mosquito bites.
- Your pets can very easily become sources of sustenance for mosquitoes. If you own an outdoor dog or cat or let your pet out periodically, refrain, if possible, from keeping them outdoors at sunrise or sunset, as mosquitoes are most active during these hours.
- Watch what you eat when you’re out and about in the yard, as certain human food smells are common attractors for bloodthirsty mosquitoes. Sweet fruits, succulent meats, and sugary soft drinks are all on the list of foods not to bring outside when mosquitoes are about.
Do-it-yourself measures are good for a measure of prevention, but if you want to rid your home of mosquitoes for good, you need to take the next step and implement a professional treatment plan. Contact EnSec Pest & Lawn for advice and assistance on in-depth mosquito extermination strategies.