Mosquito bites are frustrating enough, what with their immediate itchiness and redness that seem to last far too long, but they can be even worse if the mosquito is carrying one of the many bloodborne diseases that these insects can transmit. If a mosquito feeds on an infected mammal before biting a new mammal, it can transmit the dangerous pathogens through its saliva. An age-old myth is that mosquitoes inject each host with the blood of their previous meals, but this is simply not true. Mosquitoes inject their saliva into every host, but since their saliva can be infected and is always the reason why their bites itch, it’s still a negative experience to be bitten by one of these pests.

Since female mosquitoes lay their eggs on the surface of fresh water – lakes, ponds, puddles, etc. – we receive mosquito bites when we spend more time around water or in high humidity. They are present in all kinds of regions and therefore can spread disease to a variety of mammals. Some of the most common diseases that mosquitoes can transmit to humans are malaria, Zika virus, and West Nile virus. While these diseases are still relatively common around the world, they are completely treatable in the early stages. Each disease has its own specific symptoms and risks that vary depending on the bitten person. The major shared symptoms of these diseases include chills, body aches, nausea, dizziness, fever, and fatigue. If you or anyone in your home experiences these symptoms after receiving a mosquito bite, please seek medical attention immediately. 

If you notice that you have a growing mosquito population in your yard, it’s time to call in the professionals. The highly-trained technicians of Pointe Pest Control are experienced in solving all kinds of Edwardsville mosquito issues. From major infestations to reliable prevention, our team can handle it all. We only use products that we personally guarantee are effective against mosquitoes while still being safe for both people and pets. Contact us today to learn more about how we can prevent your home from becoming a mosquito haven this year!