In late summer and early fall, mosquitoes are a nuisance during your outdoor adventures. In fact, in the United States alone there are over 150 species of mosquitoes. While pesky insects whose bites are itchy and annoying, they can also transmit mosquito-borne diseases.
Staying informed and knowing how to reduce your risk is important. Depending on where you are, mosquitoes can transmit a number of serious illnesses. If you notice any symptoms of mosquito-borne diseases, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with your primary care provider.
What is West Nile virus?
In the continental United States, West Nile virus is the leading mosquito-borne illness. The virus has been spreading across the United States for 20 years, following the first reported cases in 1999.
Not all mosquitoes carry West Nile virus, which spreads through a bite from an infected mosquito. In rare cases, it spreads through blood transfusions or from mother to baby during pregnancy. However, West Nile is not spread through coughing, sneezing or touching.
How common is West Nile?
“I think it’s important to know that symptomatic West Nile is really uncommon,” Emily Simpson, MD, infectious disease physician in our Cincinnati market, shares. “Only 20 percent of people develop symptoms, and most never develop any symptoms.”
A small number of people might develop fever, headache, muscle aches, nausea or a rash. According to the CDC, less than 1 percent of those infected develop a serious illness affecting the central nervous system.
Although uncommon, if you’ve been bitten by mosquitoes and think you might have West Nile virus, talk to your primary care provider.
Are there other common mosquito-borne illnesses?
Around the world, mosquitoes carry and spread other diseases, including various types of encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), Zika virus and malaria. In the United States, most cases of mosquito-borne diseases besides West Nile virus are types of encephalitis.
If you’re traveling abroad, it’s important to plan and know the risks related to insects in the countries you’ll be visiting.
Zika virus
Zika made headlines several years ago, especially for its impact on pregnant women and unborn babies. Though many who get Zika have mild symptoms or no symptoms, the virus can cause birth defects like microcephaly, a condition where a baby’s head is much smaller than expected for their size and age.
Aedes mosquitoes primarily spread Zika but can also be transmitted through sexual contact and from mother to baby during pregnancy.
Dengue
Dengue fever is more common in tropical and subtropical areas, but cases have been reported in parts of the U.S., especially in Florida and Texas. Symptoms can range from mild fever and joint pain to severe bleeding and shock in rare cases.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), dengue infection cases have increased dramatically in recent years, and the disease is now endemic in more than 100 countries.
Malaria
Although malaria is rare in the U.S., it remains a major public health concern globally, especially in Africa, South Asia and parts of South America.
A parasite transmitted through the bites of infected Anopheles mosquitoes causes it and leads to symptoms like high fever, chills and flu-like illness. Malaria can be fatal without prompt treatment, but it is preventable and curable.
Chikungunya
The chikungunya virus may not be as well-known as other mosquito-borne diseases, but it can be incredibly uncomfortable. The name itself means “that which bends up,” referring to the stooped posture people adopt because of joint pain.
The virus is spread by the same mosquito species that transmit Zika and dengue, and is most common in Africa, Asia and the Caribbean.
How can you prevent bites?
You can lower your risk of mosquito bites — and mosquito-borne diseases — with a few simple precautions.
- Use insect repellent: Use EPA-registered repellents, such as DEET or picaridin, to help protect against mosquitoes. Always follow the product’s label instructions. Consider natural ways to repel mosquitoes as well.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants: Treating your clothing and gear with repellent can also help. Be sure to follow the product instructions, as some products shouldn’t be used directly on your skin.
- Use screens on windows and doors: Prevent mosquitoes from entering your home by using screens wherever possible.
- Mosquito-proof your outdoor spaces: You can spray insecticides around your home, following the manufacturer’s instructions for safety. When choosing a product, consider what is safe near small children and pets if you have any. Look for any stagnant water to remove, like buckets or birdbaths. If it’s a larger body of water, consider a larvicide solution that kills mosquito larvae but won’t harm other wildlife or pets.
How we can help
Preventing infection by preventing mosquito bites is the best approach. However, if bitten, don’t scratch the bite and use over-the-counter antihistamines or calamine lotion to reduce the itch.
Some mosquito-borne diseases may be treated with medicines, but some have lasting consequences. If you get bitten by a mosquito and experience fever, headache, muscle aches, nausea, swollen lymph nodes or a rash, contact your primary care provider.
Learn about the primary care services we offer at Mercy Health.
