Mosquito activity is significantly increasing in Massachusetts. As the months get warmer, the risk of mosquito bites and diseases increases. If you live near a forest or have a backyard or a garden around your house the risk increases. Summers are also a great time to do outdoor activities, and go on hikes, and perfect for enjoying quality family time in the backyard. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of certain things to safeguard yourself and your family from nasty mosquitoes that cause itching and rashes from bites and dangerous diseases.
One such disease that is on the spread in Massachusetts is West Nile Virus!
What is West Nile Virus?West Nile Virus is a mosquito-borne illness affecting humans, birds, and other animals. It is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most people infected with WNV do not show symptoms, but about 20% may experience mild symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, skin rash, and swollen lymph glands. In rare cases, the virus can cause severe illness, including encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord), which can be fatal.
How to protect yourself?
Here are some essential tips to help you stay safe from WNV:
Use Insect Repellent: Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 to exposed skin and clothing when you go outdoors.
Wear Protective Clothing: Wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks when possible, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
Install Screens: Make sure windows and doors have tight-fitting screens to keep mosquitoes out of your home.
Eliminate Standing Water: Mosquitoes breed in standing water, so regularly empty water from flowerpots, gutters, birdbaths, and other containers around your home.
Stay Informed: Keep up with local health advisories and reports on WNV activity in your area.
What to do if you suspect an infection?
If you or a family member develop symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, or a rash after being bitten by a mosquito, it's important to contact your healthcare provider. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.
What to do if you find a rise in the mosquito population in or around your house?
The immediate thing to do is to contact mosquito control services. RidAway is one such expert in mosquito control. It is EPA-approved, state-licensed, and industry-certified and most importantly uses biologically friendly pesticides that leave your home safe to return to.
For a quick solution to an urgent intrusion, RidAway is ready to come to your rescue.
