Feature: Health Hazards of Mosquitoes

As mosquito season heats up, people have to be mindful of all of the health hazards that come with these pests.  While many people only view them as a nuisance, mosquitoes are actually incredibly dangerous. In fact, the AMCA states there are several mosquito born diseases people must try to avoid. The symptoms of these diseases range from mild discomfort to death.

West Nile Virus

West Nile Virus is one of the most feared mosquito borne illnesses.  People who have this virus often display flu like symptoms. They might feel sore or achy, or complain of not feeling well. Since people often think they have the flu, they fail to get medical treatment. In some cases, the lack of treatment can lead to death.

Malaria

Malaria is one of the most serious and deadly diseases in the world. While Malaria is most often found in tropical climates, it has made its way to the United States on several occasions. The last time the United States had a serious issue with Malaria was after Vietnam, due to the large number of soldiers who traveled home from tropical climates.  While people are not likely to contract Malaria will roaming the streets of the US, they can still get it when they travel to other areas of the world.  After they contract it, they can bring it back home with them, just as the soldiers did after Vietnam.

Dengue

Dengue is a more serious problem today than it was several years ago.  Those who become infected with this disease often suffer symptoms that are much more severe than the symptoms people faced in the past. This has to do with the adaptation of the mosquitoes that spread the disease.  Those who contract this disease will likely live through it, but the severe symptoms can be incredibly uncomfortable.

EEE

This is a very serious arbovirus that affects the central nervous system.  It can be spread to people and horses, and causes a variety of problems. People often start with mild flu like symptoms. The virus progresses, and turns into fevers and severe headaches.  Eventually, many people go into a coma.  A large number of those who enter into a coma do not make it back out.

SLE

Infected mosquitoes spread this serious disease to birds and people.  This disease is very similar to EEE, and can be fatal. Since there is not a vaccine for SLE available, the best method of protection is to avoid mosquitoes.

Heartworms

Dog lovers have to be on the offensive against heartworms. Infected mosquitoes can spread heartworms to dogs. These worms can be fatal.  Even when the dog does not die, he can end up with a variety of health problems. Thus, it is best to protect your dogs from heartworms

While these are the most common diseases spread by mosquitoes, there are several others people can get.  It is best to be careful and protect your family and pets from mosquitoes.  A mosquito bite is much more than a nuisance.  It can lead t sickness and death, and thus, should be avoided.