With the universal use of face masks nowadays, you might be wondering if they might have other benefits besides protecting you from COVID-19. Masking up might help protect you from allergens and dust, but it won't fend off mosquitoes. That means masks are no substitute for a Milford pest control plan, and a strategy that includes steps for getting rid of mosquitoes around your property remains vital for homeowners.
Continue reading to learn the factors that make a mosquito problem serious, as well as how Big Blue Bug Solutions can ensure no mosquito ever drones by your home again.
Does Wearing A Face Mask Protect Against Mosquitoes
When mosquitoes look for a blood meal, they're attracted to many things. They love floral scents, such as those found in deodorants, body washes, and perfumes. The odor of your skin and the smell of sweat also draw in mosquitoes. Moreover, these bugs can sense body heat, meaning the warmer you are, the faster they'll come.
These factors make masking up impractical against mosquitoes as masks don't cover how you smell.
However, there are other things you can do to get rid of the mosquitoes buzzing toward you:
- Don't put on floral scents or body sprays in the summer.
- Wear light-colored clothing, as dark colors attract mosquitoes more.
- If outdoors during mosquito season, avoid consuming salt and alcohol—mosquitoes are attracted to blood with higher concentrations of these foods.
These simple changes are as easy to incorporate as putting on a mask but are proven to repel mosquitoes.
Why Mosquitoes Around Your Home Is A Big Problem
Mosquitoes spread disease, plain and simple. While malaria is the most infamous disease these pests spread, mosquitoes in America spread many other dangerous illnesses, too. When you have a backyard full of these little buggers, you risk contracting a mosquito-borne illness every time you get bit. That's why it's crucial to take steps to prevent these pests from hovering near your property.
How Mosquitoes Spread Malaria & Other Dangerous Diseases
Mosquitoes transmit disease when they feed on you. Their mouthparts are like a hypodermic needle, and when a mosquito's mouth pierces your skin, it injects you with whatever pathogens it happens to be carrying at the time. Despite the United States having the medical capacity to treat malaria and other mosquito-borne illnesses, that doesn't mean you should relax.
West Nile virus is one of the most common diseases spread by mosquitoes in the United States. West Nile is not often of serious concern because it's asymptomatic in most cases. However, West Nile can cause fatigue, headaches, and high fever and, in rare cases, even cause severe neurological symptoms that lead to disability and death.
Encephalitis is another major concern. Mosquitoes transmit several kinds of encephalitis, including Western equine encephalitis, Eastern equine encephalitis, St. Louis encephalitis, and La Crosse encephalitis. These strains can cause seizures, loss of consciousness, and brain inflammation, all of which can lead to permanent brain damage.
How Do You Control The Mosquito Population In Your Back Yard?
Although most preventative measures work to keep mosquitoes away, they have little impact on the bugs already in your home. If you have a breeding population of these pests on your property, you'll need professional help to rid your yard of mosquitoes.
Here at Big Blue Bug Solutions, we know all about mosquitoes and how to kill them. Our specialists deliver reliable treatments that completely eradicate a mosquito infestation. We'll also help you protect your property from future infestations. Call or schedule an inspection online today and reclaim your yard from these parasitic pests.