Mosquitoes are not only irritating and itch-inducing; they also carry diseases that have the potential to make both humans and animals ill. Protect yourself and others from mosquito-borne illnesses by learning more about the diseases mosquitoes carry.

West Nile Virus

West Nile Virus is a disease transmitted by mosquitoes that cause encephalitis, or brain inflammation. Though most people who are infected with West Nile Virus will have no symptoms, about 20 percent will develop a fever accompanied by other symptoms, such as a headache and vomiting. Less than one percent will develop a serious neurological illness. To reduce your risk of contracting West Nile Virus, wear protective clothing, use insect repellent, and guard your home against mosquitoes.

Malaria

Malaria is a serious, potentially fatal mosquito-borne illness that is caused by a parasite. Though malaria has been eliminated from the United States since the 1950s, there are still 1,500 annual cases on average. Symptoms of malaria include high fever and chills. Because malaria is found in tropical and sub-tropical climates, individuals traveling to countries with these climates are often advised to take anti-malarial pills in order to prevent contracting the disease.

Dog Heartworm

Mosquitoes not only carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans; they also carry infections that can harm animals. When a dog is bitten by a mosquito carrying heartworm larvae, the larvae, over time, grow and develop into worms. The worms may migrate to the lungs, heart, kidneys, and liver, causing mild to severe clinical symptoms.

To protect your family and home from mosquitoes, contact Platinum Mosquito Protection at 954-888-9311. We sell, install, and service outdoor automatic misting systems that keep your Miami area home and yard mosquito-free. Call or visit our website today to schedule a free on-site consultation and learn more about our residential misting systems.