Mosquitoes transmit many illnesses through their bites. Dense or tall foliage and standing water are common habitats that draw these insects, putting people in the area at risk of contracting a few common diseases carried by mosquitoes.

These insect bites can cause painful and itchy marks on your skin, potentially infecting you with diseases spread by mosquitoes. The issue has become more prevalent throughout the United States because of larger mosquito populations and increased commerce and travel.

The likelihood of contracting an illness via a mosquito in the United States is relatively low. However, you should be aware of which diseases can be transmitted by mosquitoes and their symptoms so you know what to watch for:

1. Zika Virus

Mosquito bites from the Aedes type can spread the Zika virus. Common symptoms after infection include:

  • Joint pain
  • Fever
  • Rash
  • Conjunctivitis

Many people who contract Zika experience a mild case of the virus. There is a chance that this illness can become severe and require hospitalization. Professionals are also investigating links between Zika and its potential long-term health effects.

2. Chikungunya Virus (CV)

CV is an emerging threat in the United States. Most cases in the United States come from people who travel to locations where the virus is endemic. However, there have been instances of local transmission, meaning more mosquitoes here carry the illness.

Symptoms of CV include:

  • Headaches
  • Fever
  • Muscle aches
  • Rash
  • Joint pain

The illness caused by CV is often mild, though you may experience severe joint pain until you receive proper treatment. CV cannot spread between people.

3. Dengue

Dengue fever is common throughout the world, with millions of cases occurring annually. Many types of dengue exist, though the most severe is Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF).

This virus is transmitted via bites from mosquitoes in the Aedes family. Common areas in the United States where dengue cases have been reported are Hawaii, Florida and the border between Texas and Mexico.

4. Malaria

Over 1,000 cases of malaria are documented in the United States yearly. Most illnesses are reported in individuals who recently traveled to countries where malaria is more prevalent.

Outbreaks of malaria can occur due to local mosquitoes. These insects become carriers after biting a traveler who has already been infected before returning from another country where malaria is more common and transmits the disease to other individuals.

Anopheles mosquitoes most commonly spread malaria. Most people feel quite ill, with flu-like symptoms and high fevers. Anyone infected with malaria will need anti-malarial medications and treatment for their symptoms.

Get Mosquito Elimination Services From Royal Pest & Termite, Inc. Today

While this list covers many viruses caused by mosquito bites, other diseases transmitted by mosquitoes include West Nile Virus, Yellow Fever, St. Louis Encephalitis Virus and Japanese Encephalitis Virus, among others.

Royal Pest & Termite, Inc. offers the best available mosquito treatment to help you stay protected. We use In2Care® buckets to trap and eliminate Aedes mosquitoes effectively. A mosquito flies into the trap, picks up the bioactive particles and distributes them at breeding sites, killing larvae. The initial mosquito will die within a few days.

If you have a mosquito problem at your home, taking precautions now can reduce your likelihood of contracting these illnesses. Contact us online or call (754) 800-5284 to get started!