Mosquitoes in Atlanta are much more than a nuisance pest. While they certainly are annoying, mosquitoes are also dangerous. People in the United States and other countries consider mosquitoes to be the most deadly creature on the planet, and this title is well-deserved. Find out more about one of the biggest dangers of mosquitoes - their ability to spread diseases.
The Facts About Mosquitoes In Atlanta
Although mosquitoes don't need an introduction, here are a few basic facts. Mosquitoes are flying insects that are easy to identify by their dangling legs, long bodies, and large proboscis. Of course, they're even easier to name by their behavior. Females of this common Atlanta pest feed on animal and human blood, often crashing outdoor events.
When a female mosquito bites, she usually leaves behind an itchy welt. Everyone has different reactions to these bites, but it's standard for the itching to last several days. Some individuals have particularly harsh reactions and experience severe swelling and more.
Although no one can dispute the fact that local mosquitoes are annoying, there's one fact that most people overlook. Mosquitoes are downright dangerous because they can carry and transmit diseases. Not every mosquito is a carrier, but you never know when you'll be bit by a mosquito carrying a deadly disease. Without keeping mosquitoes away from your property, you leave yourself vulnerable.
The Most Common Atlanta Mosquito-Borne Diseases
Even if you already know that mosquitoes can spread diseases, you might not know much about those diseases. By far, the most common mosquito-borne disease is the West Nile virus. Only about one out of every five people with this disease have symptoms, so it's far more common than you may imagine.
If you do show symptoms, you're likely to have a fever as well as headache, body aches, joint pains, or vomiting. In more rare instances, people experience encephalitis or meningitis. While this only occurs about once in every 150 cases, it is a possibility.
Zika virus is also spread by mosquitoes. Although it's more commonly associated with travel, this disease also can be spread by local mosquitoes. Typically, Zika doesn't have many consequences. However, it causes a nervous system disease in rare cases, and also can be extremely hazardous to pregnant women and their fetuses.
Two other potential diseases are La Crosse and Saint Louis encephalitis viruses. They are not as common as the other diseases but are worth mentioning. A mosquito can spread either disease in Atlanta, and the consequences could be deadly in rare instances. Under certain circumstances, La Crosse can cause long-term health complications. Currently, there are no vaccines or antibiotics that are effective against this disease. The elderly are the most in danger from Saint Louis encephalitis.
Will You Be A Victim?
You might not know anyone who has been a victim of a mosquito-borne disease but that doesn't mean you're in the clear. People tend to overlook the frequency of these diseases. Is it worth putting your health on the line?
You probably don't want mosquitoes to bite you. However, is there anything you’re doing to keep these pests away? Unless you work with a pest control professional in Atlanta, you could be doing more. The usual mosquito prevention tips won't completely eliminate mosquitoes from your backyard.
Here at Tuxedo Mosquito Control, we offer you a safe and effective way to deter mosquitoes. We don't believe anyone should need to live in fear of mosquitoes. To give you peace of mind and safety, we offer an ongoing mosquito prevention program. If you're interested in protecting yourself and your family give us a call today. We're happy to be of assistance!