While we can all agree that mosquitoes are a nuisance, they can cause quite a few problems for both people and animals including the spread of diseases. Mosquitoes can tolerate a range of temperature and humidity depending on their life stage. While adult mosquitoes can’t survive below 50° F, mosquito eggs can survive even in the snow. The eggs can stay viable for months even on dry land but are only able to hatch on the surface of at least 1 inch of water. Each female mosquito can lay hundreds of eggs at one time and are able to lay multiple times in their lifespan which is 1-2 months. The larvae look like small, thin worms in the water that feed off of organic matter. Female mosquitoes require blood to survive and are the ones responsible for those itchy bites and the spread of disease. Male mosquitoes feed primarily on plant nectar and usually only live 5-7 days.
Types of mosquito borne diseases
Most of these are transmitted only through bites of infected mosquitoes. Most can not be transferred from human to human or through animals that have contracted a disease. They have very similar symptoms and may be difficult to determine the difference between flu-like symptoms and mosquito fever. Blood samples can be drawn and tested to diagnose which illness you may have contracted and then be treated for appropriately. Find a brief description of the most well-known diseases transmitted via mosquitoes below.
West Nile Virus- First identified in 1937 in Africa and is now the most common mosquito borne illness in the U.S. The death rate for West Nile virus is very low but it can cause meningitis or encephalitis (both cause inflammation of the brain and spinal cord usually caused by infection). Common symptoms include fever, head and body aches, rash and pain in certain individuals. There is no vaccine to prevent it in humans.
Dengue- The most common worldwide. The more times a person contracts Dengue, the more likely their symptoms will increase in severity each time. First infection symptoms are usually mild and can include fever, nausea, weakness, body aches and rash. Hospitalization may be necessary if infected more than once; however, there is a vaccine available.
Chikungunya- Most prominent symptoms include painful joints and in some cases may cause chronic pain and swelling lasting years. Unlike Dengue, once recovered it is unlikely you will contract it again and therefore no vaccine or treatment is available.
Zika- Symptoms for Zika virus may be very mild or absent and there is no vaccine. In fact, the majority of people who are infected are asymptomatic. Symptoms may include fever, chills, lethargy, aches and rashes. The virus is especially dangerous for pregnant women as it can cause birth defects.
Malaria- Comes from a parasite that infects mosquitoes before they bite a human. Receiving treatment as soon as possible is crucial to recovery. Symptoms include fever, chills, vomiting, increased heart and respiratory rate and headaches. Some malaria causing parasites can be dormant for months or years. There is a vaccine that protects against Malaria.
Oropuche- Most common in Central and South America but a few cases reported in the U.S. among people who had traveled recently. Similarly to West Nile, it can cause meningitis and encephalitis. Symptoms include nausea, eye pain and headaches, dizziness and fever. There is no specific treatment or vaccine.
Encephalitis- (St. Louis, Western Equine, Eastern Equine) No human vaccines available.
- St. Louis Encephalitis- Most of those infected are asymptomatic but some may experience lethargy, memory loss, tremors, dizziness and headaches with some symptoms lasting years.
- Western Equine Encephalitis- Mild disease with low mortality rate in horses. Humans are not usually affected but can have headaches or a fever. It is not as common as it used to be in the 1900’s but still prevalent in equine species in certain parts of the world.
- Eastern Equine Encephalitis- Not common but a very serious disease if infected. May cause fever, vomiting, seizures, coma and chronic neurological problems.
Yellow Fever- Not common in the U.S. anymore except among travelers. Symptoms may be mild headaches and fever or more severe such as internal bleeding and jaundice. There is a vaccine for yellow fever.
For more information on each disease, check out Texas Health and Human Services.
While these are the most common, there are more than 3,500 species of mosquitoes. Each who specialize in carrying different diseases. Mosquitoes thrive in humid, warm environments and may find some areas around your home extra appealing.
Ideal Habitat for Mosquitoes
- Mosquitoes love to hang around plants whether potted or in the ground. Anywhere that currently has or may have damp soil even for short periods.
- Anywhere that has standing water such as drainage pipes, uneven ground, outdoor trash cans, tools/equipment, bird baths, flower pots, clutter/debris piles or anywhere else that water may collect.
- Shady areas of your yard may be impossible to get rid of but be sure to keep standing water away from these areas in particular as they don’t dry out and aren’t in direct sun where mosquitoes like to avoid. Turn dirt when possible/if necessary.
- Piles of yard waste, vegetation and compost make great hiding/shelter areas and breeding grounds.
- Sweet smelling food items, trash and of course bright lights in the evenings as well as plants that flower (male mosquitoes eat pollen and nectar and where there are males, females will be nearby).
- Bodies of water such as ponds, pools and lakes are suitable for mosquitoes to lay eggs to be hatched.
While wearing scents offensive to mosquitoes like citronella, eucalyptus or lavender, wearing long clothing and drowning yourself in bug spray can ward off some mosquitoes and is never a bad idea, we have all been a victim of mosquito bites despite preventative measures. Having Prickly Pear treat your home for pests is the best way to ensure you’re bite free this season. Their methods are safe and effective for wildlife, pets and people and target mosquitoes specifically while keeping our good pollinators safe.
For more information on mosquito management, check out our blog on managing mosquito menances.
When thinking about the most common mosquito borne diseases, humans are the first to come to mind. Mosquitoes can also transmit a variety of diseases to our beloved pets as well. Most commonly in cats and dogs, heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes. They are small worms that live in the blood vessels of the heart and cause congestive heart failure which proves to be fatal without treatment. For hoofstock such as horses, llamas, alpacas, goats and donkeys as well as certain bird species, West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis can become an issue. Although less common, even pets housed inside full time can be affected by mosquitoes such as ferrets, rodents or reptiles.
As we get into the summer heat, make sure to prepare as the mosquitoes become more active and are out for longer hours. Prickly Pear can also help take care of any pest issue you may have including bugs, small mammals, reptiles and birds!