Mosquitoes may just seem like a nuisance, but entomologists consider them one of the most dangerous pests on the planet. McCall Service, providing mosquito solutions to customers in Jacksonville, FL and other communities, explains the many ways in which these buzzing insects pose a serious health threat.
Diseases Spread by the Mosquito
The following mosquito-borne diseases are spread in the United States:
West Nile Virus
While many people experience no symptoms, about 20 percent of those with the West Nile virus suffer these effects:
- Achiness
- Joint pain
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Rashes
- Headaches
- Fatigue lasting weeks
- Achiness
- Joint pain
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Rashes
- Headaches
- Fatigue lasting weeks
While very uncommon, meningitis caused by infections can cause serious issues like convulsions, coma, and blindness; death occurs in extremely rare cases.
Encephalitis
Swelling around the brain (encephalitis) is an unlikely but possible effect of a mosquito bite. Encephalitis causes these health effects:
- Fever and other flu-like symptoms
- Confusion
- Seizures
- Fever and other flu-like symptoms
- Confusion
- Seizures
Symptoms of infection appear within a few days to weeks after the victim is bitten.
Dengue Fever
Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne illness found in Hawaii and other tropical locales. It causes flu-like symptoms, including rashes, fever, and pain in the joints and muscles. In rare cases, a drastic blood pressure drop and serious bleeding can cause death.
Chikungunya
There is no treatment for this viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes. Like many other mosquito-borne illnesses, it causes fever and other flu-like symptoms but does not usually result in fatalities.
Post-Bite Mosquito Solutions
While not all bites cause serious illness, they can produce intense itching in some people. Reactions vary depending on the histamines our bodies release in response to a bite. Mild itching or red bumps with severe itching can occur. As hard as it sounds, resist the urge to scratch. Scratching mosquito bites can worsen itching and rupture the skin, leaving the area vulnerable to infection. Instead, wash the skin with cold water and a mild soap, followed by Benadryl or hydrocortisone cream if needed.
Keeping the pests away from you is the best defense against these illnesses. McCall Service is your source for mosquito solutions in or near Jacksonville, FL. Contact us today for an estimate or for questions about protecting your family from the threat of mosquitoes.
