Even if you have not been living in Florida for very long, there is a high chance that you have already become familiar with one of its most common and annoying pests, mosquitoes. These airborne bloodsuckers rely on two main factors to succeed: a warm and damp climate, and a population to feed on. Considering how hot and rainy our climate is, and how many tourists come to enjoy the tropical weather in the summertime, it’s surprising that mosquitoes in Florida aren’t more of an issue than they already are. Though the typical mosquito bite is only a mild annoyance and the itching will fade in a day or two, other problems can arise from these bug bites, the main one being disease.
What Is A Mosquito-Borne Disease?
When a mosquito feeds on blood, it takes with it not only the blood cells but also any viruses or parasites that live in that blood. The next time they feed, any of the viruses or parasites they picked up from the last meal can be spread to the next host.
What Types Of Diseases Can Mosquitoes Carry?
Though the mosquitoes may remain unaffected by the viruses and parasites they pick up from their prey, these illnesses can cause a great deal of suffering for humans. Here are a few of the different types of diseases humans can get from mosquitoes.
· Zika
Also known as Zika Fever, this virus is mosquito-borne, and can have some very serious effects. Many patients do not exhibit any signs or symptoms of the illness, but those that do often have red eyes, joint pains, rashes, and headaches. The real scare when it comes to Zika is for pregnant women. As I mentioned above, patients with this disease often show little to no symptoms, but if caught by someone during pregnancy, it can lead to some serious health issues for their child, for example microcephaly.
· Dengue Fever
Sometimes beginning as late as two weeks after the initial mosquito bite, dengue fever symptoms can be harmful enough to put most in the hospital. Symptoms include fever, nausea, rashes, as well as aches and pains that last up to a week. Some people develop other complications that stem from the disease such as internal bleeding, shock, and even death. Thankfully the levels of dengue fever have plummeted over the last few years, but an average of 36 thousand people still die from it annually.
· Yellow Fever
This viral disease causes jaundice in some patients, giving them a yellowish tint, noticeable especially in the eyes. The other symptoms include fever, headache, chills, back pain, vomiting, and fatigue. Though this disease is not as prevalent as it was in the past, it still takes the lives of 30 thousand people every year.
· Chikungunya
Just like Zika and Dengue, this disease can cause headaches, muscle pain, rashes, and joint swelling, making it easy to misdiagnose. In most cases, a patient can expect to be back on their feet in about a week, though the joint pain can last for months, or even years.
Pest Control In St. Johns, Florida
If you want to lower the likelihood of mosquito-borne disease, the best place to start is by working to get rid of mosquitoes near your home. RightWay Integrated Lawn and Pest Solutions has the products you need to keep the pests at bay. We know that quality lawn care requires quality products, and ours are the best on the market. If you would like to learn more or schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to contact us today!
