All articles tagged with #mosquitos
Officials have detected the West Nile virus in mosquitos in several NYC neighborhoods, including Kensington in Boro Park. While most cases are asymptomatic, symptoms can include headaches, body aches, vomiting, and skin rashes. Serious cases affecting the brain and spinal cord are rare. There is no cure, but most people recover on their own.
State health officials in Michigan are urging residents to take precautions against mosquito bites after mosquitos in Saginaw County tested positive for Jamestown Canyon virus, which can cause severe brain and spinal cord diseases. Residents are advised to use EPA-approved insect repellents, wear protective clothing, and eliminate standing water around their homes.
A University of Washington study found that wearing green, purple, dark blue, or white can help avoid mosquito bites in Louisiana, while red, black, orange, and cyan attract them.
Mosquitos are the most dangerous animals in the world, responsible for transmitting diseases that cause between 725,000 and 1,000,000 deaths annually. Humans come in second, with an estimated 56 million deaths per year, including intentional homicides, unintentional violent deaths, and deaths from war and terrorism. Dogs, saltwater crocodiles, and hippos also make the list of dangerous animals due to their potential for attacking and killing humans.
Mosquito populations in Southern California have surged due to the abundant rainfall brought by Tropical Storm Hilary, leading to an increased risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as West Nile virus and Zika virus. The invasive yellow fever mosquito, known for targeting humans specifically, poses a significant threat as it can survive harsh conditions and lay durable eggs that can hatch even after a year. To protect against mosquito bites, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends using EPA-registered insect repellents, wearing long-sleeved clothing, using screens on windows and doors, eliminating standing water sources, and using mosquito nets when sleeping outdoors.
West Nile Virus has been detected in mosquitos for the fourth time in the City of Sharon, Pennsylvania. Officials urge residents to take precautions such as using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing. No human cases have been reported in Mercer County, but symptoms may include fever, body aches, and a skin rash.
The city of Des Moines is taking proactive measures to prevent the spread of West Nile Virus after over 200 mosquitos caught in surveillance traps tested positive for the virus. Community-wide mosquito control treatment efforts have begun, and residents are urged to eliminate breeding grounds for mosquitos. No known cases of West Nile in humans or pets have been reported in the city.
Mosquito samples collected in several Pittsburgh neighborhoods and neighboring municipalities have tested positive for West Nile Virus. The Allegheny County Health Department will spray a mosquito pesticide in these areas to lower the local mosquito population and reduce the risk of human transmission. Health officials urge residents to protect themselves by removing standing water, using insect repellent, and ensuring open windows and doors have screens. Work is also set to start on the Homestead Grays Bridge, with periodic lane and sidewalk closures expected. Additionally, Allegheny County has received state funding for traffic light improvements in over 20 projects throughout the county. Pittsburgh police have announced the latest citation and arrest numbers in the South Side entertainment district, where additional patrols have been conducted to improve safety.
Mosquitos, often considered the deadliest animal on Earth, are responsible for over 700,000 deaths worldwide each year due to the diseases they carry, such as malaria, West Nile Virus, Dengue, Zika, and Yellow fever. While they are a nuisance, their extinction would also lead to the extinction of certain bird and bat species that rely on them as a food source, and some mosquitos also serve as pollinators. To protect oneself from mosquitos, it is advised to avoid going out during their active hours, use mosquito repellent, eliminate standing water, and consider professional insecticide treatment for yards.
Health officials in Benton County have detected the presence of West Nile Virus in mosquitos, urging residents to take precautions to avoid infection.
Mosquitos are most active in the early morning and early evening hours, preferring cooler temperatures and seeking moisture and shade. They are less active during the middle of the day when it is hotter and daylight can be deadly for them. To protect yourself from mosquito bites, use bug spray, citronella oil or candles, and avoid areas with standing water. Additionally, avoid spending time outdoors in the early mornings or evenings if you want to minimize mosquito encounters.
Mosquitos carrying the West Nile virus have been detected in four Colorado counties, including Boulder, Delta, Weld, and Larimer. While most people infected with the virus don't show symptoms, it can be deadly, especially for those aged 60 and older or with certain health conditions. Symptoms include severe headaches and confusion. Public health officials advise taking precautions such as using insect repellents, limiting outdoor time during dusk and dawn, and wearing protective clothing. Preventive measures include removing standing water and installing mosquito-proof screens.
Experts say there is a slim chance of malaria cases spreading to Utah, as the specific species of mosquitos that can carry the disease are not transmitting it in the local population. The risk of contracting malaria for Utahns lies in traveling to malaria-infected areas, such as Africa, Asia, and South America. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently reported five malaria cases in the US, with four in Florida and one in Texas. While it is concerning that cases are emerging after many years, experts believe that malaria is unlikely to become a problem in Utah. The CDC advises individuals traveling to malaria-infected areas to take appropriate preventive medications.
Mosquitos in Boulder County, Colorado, have tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV), according to Boulder County Public Health (BCPH). While most infections are mild, serious cases can lead to inflammation of the brain, loss of vision, paralysis, coma, tremors, convulsions, and even death. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, headache, body aches, and skin rashes. There is no cure or human vaccination for WNV, so BCPH is urging residents to protect themselves by using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, avoiding outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours, and eliminating standing water.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have found that the scent of soap or perfume a person uses can impact how many mosquitos are drawn to them. Mosquitos are more attracted to fruity and flowery scents and less attracted to the smell of coconut.