The West Nile Virus appeared in the US in 1999, although it was already prevalent in Africa, the Middle East and in West Asia. After its appearance was identified, forty-eight of the mainland states were also reported as being impacted by the virus. Even though some people who have the virus may show no symptoms at all, others who are affected can develop life threatening symptoms and illnesses. To stay safe from West Nile virus, there are some things that each individual should be aware of. Here’s some prevention and awareness information.

Factors that Increase the Risks of Being Infected

The risk of infection increases during a specific time of the year. Most cases that were reported in the United States occurred during the months of June through September. According to the Mayo Clinic, the geographic region plays a large role in the incidents of risks. Although the virus has been reported in most states, the Midwestern and Western states have the highest rates. In addition to the time of the year and the geographic location, the amount of time that an individual spends on the outside will also increase the risks of being bitten by a mosquito that carries the virus. 

Avoiding Risks Factors

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How fast can mosquitoes fly?

Depending upon the species, mosquitoes can fly at about 1 to 1.5 miles per hour.

How far can mosquitoes fly?

Mosquito species preferring to breed around the house, like the Asian Tiger Mosquito, have limited flight ranges of about 300 feet. Most species have flight ranges of 1-3 miles. Certain large pool breeders in the Midwest are often found up to 7 miles from known breeding spots. The undisputed champions, though, are the saltmarsh breeders – having been known to migrate up to 100 miles in exceptional circumstances, although 20 to 40 miles are much more common when hosts are scarce. When caught up in updrafts that direct them into winds high above the ground, mosquitoes can be carried great distances.
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Question:

We have 2 customers in two different counties in northern California, and both have complaints of being bitten all over. They say they have red marks that itch and hurt. They have never seen mosquitoes or mosquitoes are not a problem. One customer thinks they are being bitten by spiders. We currently treat the perimeter with Talstar and alway de-web the home. The surrounding brush may be conducive to spiders, but it seems unlikely they would be spider bites. What do you think?? I was thinking bed bugs, but unlike every place else, we have received very few calls for bed bugs. We are scheduled to do an inspection on both properties. Any ideas what to look for??? Bill, CA
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HOW to GET RID of MOSQUITO

Mosquitoes feed on blood humans and pets. They can transfer fatal diseases to pets and human. The most common and deadly disease that they can spread is called an Encephalitis and West Nile Virus. Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain that can be caused by viruses. Some of the symptoms of this disease are severe headaches, high fever, mental disturbances (i.e. confusion, irritability, tremors, stupor and coma). Mosquitoes lay their eggs in still water. They are black and white banded legs or torso. Most of them have a black and white pattern of scales on the dorsal abdomen. Most of the mosquitoes will be active at night or dusk. Keep Reading

Common Name: Aedes mosquitoes
Latin Name: Aedes spp.
Common Family Name: Mosquitoes
Latin Family Name: Culicidae
Other Names: Yellow fever mosquito, salt-marsh mosquitoes, tree-hole mosquitoes, Asian Tiger Mosquito
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