Customer LoginMassachusetts is a beautiful state with a lot to offer, but it can also be a hotbed for mosquitoes. If you’re tired of being bitten by mosquitoes, there are a few things you can do to get mosquito-free in Massachusetts.
What kind of mosquitoes live in Massachusetts?
While there are over 50 species of mosquitoes that live in Massachusetts, here are the top 3:
Aedes aegypti
Appearance: Aedes mosquitoes are small, black mosquitoes with white markings on their legs and body. They are about 1/2 inch long.
Behavior: Aedes are most active during the day, especially at dawn and dusk. They prefer to bite humans, but they can also bite other animals.
Diseases: Aedes mosquitoes are known for transmitting the Zika virus, dengue fever, and chikungunya.
Culex pipiens
Appearance: Culex mosquitoes are common all over the world. They are about 1/2 inch long and have a grayish-brown body with black markings.
Behavior: Culex mosquitoes are most active at night. They prefer to breed in stagnant water, such as puddles, birdbaths, and old tires.
Diseases: They are known for transmitting West Nile virus.
Anopheles quadrimaculatus
Appearance: Anopheles mosquitoes are large, brown mosquitoes with black markings. They are about 3/8 inch long.
Behavior: Anopheles are most active at night. They prefer to breed in still water, such as swamps, ponds, and slow-moving streams.
Diseases: Anopheles mosquitoes are known for transmitting malaria.
Mosquito-borne diseases in Massachusetts
There are a number of mosquito-borne diseases that are present in Massachusetts. Some of the most common include:
- West Nile virus:Â West Nile virus is a serious illness that can cause fever, headache, body aches, and fatigue. In rare cases, it can also cause more serious complications, such as encephalitis or meningitis.
- Zika virus:Â Zika virus is a relatively new disease that can cause mild symptoms, such as fever, rash, and joint pain. However, it can also cause more serious birth defects in babies born to infected mothers.
- Dengue fever:Â Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne illness that causes fever, headache, muscle pain, and rash. In severe cases, it can cause bleeding and death.
- Chikungunya:Â Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne illness that causes fever, joint pain, and rash. It is often accompanied by muscle pain, headache, and fatigue.
It is important to be aware of the mosquito-borne diseases that are present in Massachusetts so that you can take steps to protect yourself and your family. If you’ve been bitten by a mosquito and experiencing any of the above symptoms, seek professional medical attention immediately!
How to get mosquito-free in Massachusetts:
Remove Standing Water
Mosquitoes breed in standing water, so getting rid of it will help to reduce the mosquito population. This includes things like birdbaths, flowerpots, old tires, and even puddles of water. If you have a pool, make sure to keep it covered when not in use.
Plant mosquito-repelling plants
There are a number of plants that can help to repel mosquitoes. Some good choices include lavender, marigolds, citronella, catnip, and lemon balm. You can plant these in your yard or in pots around your home.
Use insect repellent
When you’re outdoors, it’s important to use insect repellent. Choose a repellent that contains DEET or picaridin. Apply it according to the directions on the label.
Wear long sleeves and pants
If you’re going to be outdoors for an extended period of time, it’s a good idea to wear long sleeves and pants. This will help to protect your skin from mosquito bites.
Screen your windows and doors
Mosquitoes can get into your home through open windows and doors. Screen your windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out.
Additional tips:
- Avoid being outdoors at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.
- If you have to be outdoors, stay in well-lit areas. Mosquitoes are less likely to bite in bright light.
- Use a fan to keep mosquitoes away.
- If you’re camping, choose a campsite that is well-drained and has no standing water.
Call a professional.
If you’ve tried all of the above and you’re still having a problem with mosquitoes, you can call a professional mosquito control company. A1 Exterminators offers a comprehensive mosquito control program that can help you get rid of mosquitoes and keep your family safe.
Contact A1 Exterminators today to learn more about how we can help you get mosquito-free in Massachusetts. Our all-new Ultimate Mosquito & Tick Treatment Plan combines the power of our proven eco-friendly yard-protectant spray with the industry’s only mosquito spread control system: In2Care Mosquito Stations. Learn more about our new program here.
By following these tips, you can help to reduce your risk of being bitten by mosquitoes in Massachusetts.
