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While other animals get more attention for their danger, mosquitoes cause more deaths than any other species. In fact, an estimated 725,000 people die each year due to mosquito bites. So why are these pesky insects so deadly? Read on to learn why and how to protect yourself from mosquitoes in the United States.
Why Are Mosquitoes So Deadly?
Mosquitoes are deadly because they transmit a number of diseases that can cause serious health problems or even death. These diseases include:
- Malaria
- Dengue fever
- Yellow fever
- West Nile virus
- Zika virus.
Malaria is by far the biggest killer transmitted by mosquitoes, and it is estimated that approximately 438,000 people die each year from malaria alone.
Other mosquito-borne illnesses, such as dengue fever and West Nile virus, can cause severe illness and even death if not treated immediately.
The dangers of mosquitoes don’t end there. They can also transmit parasites that cause illnesses such as encephalitis and lymphatic filariasis (LF). Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain that can lead to seizures or even death if left untreated, while LF causes swelling in the extremities, which leads to disability or disfigurement if not treated quickly enough.
Along with transmitting deadly diseases and parasites to humans, mosquitoes also transmit parasites to our furry friends. The most common mosquito-transmitted parasite to animals is heartworms. Heartworms are a leading cause of illness and fatalities in animals, mainly dogs, if they are not on a heartworm-preventative treatment.
How to Protect Yourself From Mosquitoes
The good news is that there are ways you can protect yourself from mosquito bites in the United States. One of the most effective ways to keep mosquitoes at bay is insect repellent. Insect repellents with DEET or picaridin have been proven effective against both day-biting and night-biting species of mosquitoes and other insects like ticks.
You should also wear long sleeves and pants when going outdoors, as this will provide additional protection against mosquito bites.
It’s also essential to keep your windows closed during peak mosquito season and ensure there isn’t any standing water around your property which serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
Lastly, and most importantly, having your home and property treated by a trained professional for mosquitoes multiple times a year is imperative. While mosquitoes are active during spring and summer, it is important to continue treating your home during fall and winter to ensure all mosquito larvae are eradicated. Killing the larvae decreases the number of mosquitoes returning once the weather warms.
Contact Our Mosquito Control Experts at Pest & Termite Consultants
This year, keep yourself and your family safe from dangerous mosquito bites and contact our mosquito control experts at Pest & Termite Consultants. With their knowledge and experience, they will be able to treat your property for the insatiable insects so you can enjoy your time outside this spring and summer! (919) 246-8831