Summertime is in full swing and going hand-in-hand with the outdoor fun are pests that we all would like to avoid. Mosquitos can certainly put a damper on your outdoor activities unless you don’t mind being on the menu for this bothersome blood thirsty pest. Mosquitos are more than just an annoying backyard pest. They should be feared because they are known carriers of potentially fatal diseases, such as West Nile Virus and Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE).
West Nile Virus affects the central nervous system. This dangerous disease can exhibit itself mildly as a headache, fever, stiff neck, skin rash, eye pain, vomiting, or fatigue. In severe cases, meningitis or encephalitis may occur. In 2003, the Center for Disease Control reported that humans had contracted West Nile Virus in 47 different states. So far in 2011, only 2 states are reporting in with incidents of West Nile Virus!
EEE is a virus disease that is carried by many New Jersey wild birds. It can be transmitted to humans or horses after a mosquito has bitten an infected bird. Although somewhat rare, when the disease is contracted via mosquito bite in humans, it produces a serious illness that has a fatality rate of about 50%. Research indicates that children and people over 50 years old are more susceptible to Eastern equine encephalitis.
When spending time outdoors, it’s important to protect yourself from mosquitos by wearing protective clothing (long sleeves and pants) whenever possible. NJ pest control professionals also recommend using insect repellent that contains DEET, IR3535, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus when venturing outdoors. Mosquitos are attracted to and breed in standing water, so it is important that you eliminate their breeding opportunities by emptying buckets, flower pots, wheel barrels, old tires, and children’s toys on a regular basis. Pet water dishes, bird baths, and kiddie pool water should be changed regularly to avoid mosquito breeding grounds.
You can protect your family from biting mosquitos by scheduling an exterior barrier treatment of your New Jersey home with Allison Pest Control.