4 Most Common Mosquito Borne Illnesses in Virginia Beach

Mosquitoes are a big issue in the Virginia Beach area. With the number of waterways and humid climate, it is an ongoing issue. In fact, the City of Virginia Beach has a clear mosquito control program in place because of the diseases that mosquitoes can carry. Here is information on the four most common mosquito borne diseases in Virginia Beach

West Nile Virus

The West Nile Virus is common in North America. Most people who contract will not have any symptoms. About 1 in five people develop a fever. Other symptoms can include diarrhea, vomiting, joint pains and a headache. Although most people recover, the fatigue and weakness can go on for several months. A few people can develop encephalitis or meningitis because of the infection—if you experience neck stiffness, stupor or convulsions, you should seek medical attention right away. The treatment focuses primarily on controlling the symptoms.

Eastern Equine Encephalitis

Eastern Equine encephalitis is transmitted through mosquito bites. Most people who are infected have no symptoms. The symptoms include headache, high fever and chills, as well as vomiting. It will progress and may lead to seizures or coma. There is about a 33% mortality rate for Eastern Equine encephalitis. Treatment is to treat and reduce the symptoms while the disease runs its course.

La Crosse Encephalitis

La Crosse Encephalitis is transmitted through mosquito bites. Most people who are infected do not have any symptoms, but those who develop symptoms will have fever, nausea, headache and exhaustion. This can develop into encephalitis with serious complications including coma, paralysis and seizures. Children under the age of 16 are the most vulnerable to serious complications. All treatments are for the symptoms and not the disease itself.

Saint Louis Encephalitis

Saint Louis Encephalitis has similar symptoms as the other diseases on this page. Many people do not experience symptoms, but those who do may have a sudden headache, and fever with nausea and vomiting. This may become more complication if encephalitis develops. Older adults are more vulnerable to the diseases. All treatments are based around controlling symptoms.

The best protection against these four illnesses is to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. Once way to do this is to wear mosquito repellent when you go outside. You can also set up a mosquito control program for your yard which will eliminate the mosquitoes that may bother you when you are enjoying time outside on your patio. Contact the professionals at Mosquito Tek to learn more.

Read Help! My Cat Has Fleas and find out what to do if your pet gets fleas

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