What Diseases Do Mosquitoes Spread?
Moreso than any other insect, mosquitoes are infamous for the diseases they’re capable of transmitting. Every year worldwide, there are over 700,000 deaths from vector-borne diseases. As vectors, mosquitoes contribute to the spread of the following diseases. While these diseases are mostly found in tropical and subtropical regions, they nonetheless remain a global threat:
- Malaria
- Dengue
- Schistosomiasis
- Chagas disease
- Yellow fever
- Zika virus
- Rift Valley fever
- West Nile fever
What Types of Mosquitoes Spread Diseases?
The three species of mosquitoes that are responsible for spreading diseases are Aedes, Culex, and Anopheles mosquitoes. There are multiple species within these families. Thankfully, there are many types of mosquitoes that are not carriers of dangerous diseases and are primarily considered to be a nuisance pest. Here in Lubbock TX, we have had reported cases of these types of mosquitoes, making it important to stay aware of the threat of their presence.
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Do Mosquitoes Carry Disease in Texas?
In the United States, there are more than 200 common mosquitoes. Out of all of those mosquitoes, only 12 species are capable of carrying and potentially transmitting disease. In the nation, these diseases are mostly found in the southern states. Cases or outbreaks of Dengue, chikungunya, Zika, and Malaria have been reported in Florida, Texas, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and the US Virgin Islands. Most cases of malaria reported occur in returned travelers from tropical regions. Most types of mosquitoes we encounter are nuisance mosquitoes that are incapable of transmitting the diseases that make people sick.
Symptoms of Vector-Borne Diseases
When you’re bitten by a mosquito, you’ll likely get mild symptoms that pass in a day or two. So what symptoms alert you that you may be suffering from something more serious? Common symptoms of vector-borne diseases include:
- Sudden high fever
- Stiff neck
- Confusion
- Nausea or vomiting
- Muscle tremors or seizures
- Severe headaches
- Rash
If you begin to exhibit any of these symptoms, it’s important to see your medical professional as soon as possible.