Almost everyone has had the unpleasant experience of being bitten by a mosquito. Mosquito bites can cause severe skin irritation through an allergic reaction to the mosquito's saliva -- this is what causes the red bump and itching; however, a more serious consequence of some mosquito bites may be transmission of certain serious diseases.
Not only can mosquitoes carry diseases that affect humans, but they also can transmit several diseases and parasites to dogs and horses. These include dog heart worms,
eastern equine encephalitis, and
West Nile virus.
There are about 200 different species of mosquitoes in the United States, all of which live in specific habitats, exhibit unique behaviors, and bite different types of animals. Despite these differences, they all share some common traits, such as a four-stage life cycle.
In short, the four stages of the life cycle are:
- Egg -- hatches when exposed to water
- Larva -- (plural -- larvae) lives in the water; molts several times; most species surface to breathe air
- Pupa -- (plural -- pupae) does not feed; stage just prior to emerging as adult
- Adult -- flies short time after emerging and after its body parts have hardened.
What Kind of Water Do They Like?
Mosquitoes can breed in any puddle that lasts more than four days. The type of standing water in which they choose to lay their eggs depends upon the species. The presence of beneficial predators such as fish and dragonfly nymphs in permanent ponds, lakes, and streams usually keeps these bodies of water relatively free of mosquito larvae. However, portions of marshes, swamps, clogged ditches, and temporary pools and puddles are all prolific breeding sites.
Other sites in which some species lay their eggs include tree holes and containers such as old tires, buckets, toys, potted plant trays and saucers, and plastic covers or tarpaulins. Some of the most annoying and potentially dangerous species, such as the Asian tiger mosquito, come from these sites.
Diseases Caused by Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes can spread certain diseases to humans. In some cases, these diseases can be life-threatening.
Some mosquito-borne illnesses include:
Controlling these insects, and exposure to diseases they may carry, can be done by chemical and nonchemical methods. Public activities, such as surveillance, are one part of
mosquito control. Areas are occasionally sprayed to prevent disease and nuisance caused by large mosquito numbers. The typical pesticides sprayed for mosquito control are either larvicides or adulticides.
Activities in and around the home are another important part of the strategy. Suggestions for preventing bites include:
- Using insect repellent
- Wearing protective clothing
- Being aware of peak mosquito hours
- Mosquito-proofing one's home
- Helping the community.
Which Kinds of Mosquito Repellents Are Most Effective?
Mosquito repellents help reduce exposure to bites.
Of the active ingredients registered with the EPA as mosquito repellents, two have demonstrated a higher degree of effectiveness. Repellents containing these active ingredients typically provide longer-lasting protection than others:
- DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide)
- Picaridin (KBR 3023).
Oil of lemon eucalyptus [p-menthane 3,8-diol (PMD)], a plant-based repellent, is also registered with the EPA.
