Mosquitoes: What You Need to Know
Meet the Aedes Genus
The Aedes genus encompasses over 950 mosquito species, with some notorious for their bites and disease transmission.
Aedes mosquitoes, also known as tiger mosquitoes, have spread from their tropical and subtropical origins to all continents except Antarctica.
Notable Aedes Species
Aedes aegypti
Aedes aegypti, with its distinctive white leg markings and "lyre-shaped" marking on its thorax, is a 4-7 mm mosquito that transmits diseases like Zika, yellow fever, and dengue.
Aedes albopictus
Widespread in the United States, Aedes albopictus, known for its aggressive biting, can transmit dengue, chikungunya, and other viruses.
Dengue Fever
Dengue viruses are primarily transmitted through the bites of infected Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti.
Symptoms of dengue fever include fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, and a characteristic rash.
Prevention and Control
To prevent mosquito bites and the diseases they carry:
- Use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
- Wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors, especially during peak mosquito hours (dusk and dawn).
- Eliminate standing water where mosquitoes breed, such as in birdbaths, tires, and clogged gutters.
- Install mosquito nets on windows and doors.
Importance of Mosquito Control
Mosquitoes not only cause discomfort but also pose significant health risks, transmitting diseases that can have severe consequences.
Effective mosquito control measures are crucial for protecting public health and preventing the spread of mosquito-borne diseases.
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