Risk Factors That Summer Mosquito Infestations Bring With Them

Now that July is in full swing in Eastern Tennessee, mosquitoes are everywhere! Don’t let the threat of mosquito-borne illnesses ruin your summer; instead, take control of the mosquito problem around your property and reduce the risk of dangerous mosquito-borne illnesses being spread to you, your family, and your pets with the help of a pest control professionals at Russell’s Pest Control!

Many people don’t realize just how dangerous mosquitoes are. Mosquitoes can be found all around the world and are known to spread a wide range of diseases including malaria, dengue fever, yellow fever, chikungunya, Zika virus, West Nile virus, Eastern equine encephalitis, and canine heartworm. The spread of mosquito-borne illness is due mainly to more frequent travel; if someone contracts a disease from a mosquito in another country, when they return to the United States, other mosquitoes can then feed on them the person who contracted the illness, become infected with that disease, and then spread it to more people.

Mosquito-borne diseases are spread through mosquito bites as they feed on you. An interesting fact about these biting, disease-spreading pests is that only the females bite, as they need the blood in order to reproduce. When female mosquitoes bite, they pierce your skin and their saliva enters the bite to stop the blood from clotting, allowing them to feed easily on your blood. These bites leave behind itchy bumps that can range from mild discomfort to painful and can be quite bothersome.

The good news is, even though it may seem impossible, you can reduce mosquito populations in your backyard and on your property by following some quick tips and prevention strategies. One of the most effective ways to eliminate mosquitoes around your properties is decreasing the amount of standing water around your home; mosquitoes need standing water in order to reproduce, so by eliminating the standing water that collects in clogged gutters, bird feeders, overturned toys or tools, and puddles, you are one step closer to a lower mosquito population! To avoid mosquito bites, you can also use insect repellent and wear light colored long sleeve shirts and pants when spending time outdoors.

Even though it is the height of mosquito season right now and it may look like there is no hope in sight, it’s not too late! Call on the experienced professionals at Russell’s Pest Control; we can help you control the mosquito populations on your property and limit your exposure to dangerous mosquito-borne diseases so you can get back outside and enjoy the summer weather without the worry of mosquitoes! Give us a call today to learn more about our mosquito control options.