Most people might consider winter to be the more dangerous season for season-related illnesses such as colds and flu, and injuries from falls on icy pavement and car accidents from weather related conditions. But summer has its hazards as well.
- Heat exposure and sun stroke can make you very sick or they can be deadly.
- Insect bites and stings happen more readily, and can be irritating to deadly as well.
- Bee sting allergies can cause everything from an uncomfortable swelling at the site, to an anaphylactic reaction which can be fatal if not treated immediately.
An insect bite that can range from just annoying to quite harmful is the mosquito bite. Mosquitoes breed rapidly in standing water that can be any depth from less than one inch to large bodies of water. Mosquitoes carry many different diseases throughout the world such as malaria, encephalitis, and dengue fever. Most people get bitten near their own homes.
West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis
West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis are also transmitted by mosquitoes and have become wide spread in regions across the U.S. as well as around the world. mosquito bites are not just an annoyance of summer, they can be deadly or cause lasting effects that drastically change your lifestyle. Horses and household pets have been found to be susceptible to these viruses as well.
Do Your Part
Check carefully around your property for any sources of standing water where mosquitoes can breed. Adjust sprinklers so that water doesn't pool and remain for long periods of time. Turn buckets and other containers upside down and monitor them for any water that collects in the edges or handles. Any standing water that cannot be drained can be treated with chemicals that are safe for children and pets. Check with your garden supply store.
Protect Yourself
There are several new devices on the market to attract and kill or repel mosquitoes in broad areas to protect you and your guests while entertaining or enjoying the outdoors. Citronella candles and oil lamps can work in small areas. If at all possible avoid being outdoors between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active. If you must be out, wear long sleeves, long pants and socks. Use mosquito repellents containing DEET and use only as directed especially on children. Learn how to use these products safely from the Environmental Protection Agency.
Be sure to repair screens and weather strip any gaps between screen and window or door openings. Report any dead birds to authorities. Birds are susceptible to mosquito bites and the West Nile Virus and can be a sign that the disease is circulating between the birds and the mosquitoes. Not all dead birds will be from West Nile Virus, but this is an issue for public health officials to determine.
If You Feel Sick...
If you are bitten and experience flu like symptoms, or a fever, dizziness and fatigue, in the next few days, contact your health care practitioner immediately. Quick diagnosis and treatment is essential to complete and rapid recovery, and minimizing any after effects.
The Aedes albopictus mosquito is most commonly associated with the spread of West Nile Virus. The picture depicted here is a female sucking blood from a human hand from the image files on the CDC website. James Mathany is the photographer.
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