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As the snow melts and temperatures rise, the arrival of spring blossoms not only colorful blooms and sunny days but also an increase in the population of two troublesome pests – mosquitoes and ticks. For Massachusetts residents, these pests can pose a significant threat to health and wellbeing. Mosquitoes can carry diseases such as West Nile virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), while ticks can transmit Lyme disease and other illnesses. In this blog, we’ll explore why mosquitoes and ticks should be your concern this spring and what you can do to protect yourself and your family from their harmful effects.
Mild Winter means Wild Pests
Even though this passing winter had its cold spells, it was still within the top 10 warmest on record for Massachusetts. That means mosquito and tick populations are set to boom.
January’s average temperature in Boston was 8 degrees warmer than the previous average. – GBH
The warmer winter could impact ticks and mosquitoes – but in different ways.
Kaitlyn O’Donnell is an Entomologist at Norfolk County Mosquito Control in Walpole. She explains how ticks are active now:
“As long as it is above freezing, they are active and they are able to search for a blood meal… If the warm temperatures signals these mosquitoes that it is time to wake up they maybe will come out a little earlier in the Spring and they will be able to develop faster because of the warmer temperatures.” – Boston 25 News
How high will the risk of disease from mosquitoes and ticks be this year?
Taking a look back at the 2022 mosquito and tick season, there were some things to be thankful for and others to heed caution about.
Thankfully, there were no EEE cases reported in Massachusetts during the 2022 season! The risk still remains “low” in most rural areas, though, and with many cases reported in the years prior, being cautious about EEE when it comes to you, your children, and pets is something to still take seriously.
On the other hand, there were 8 confirmed cases of West Nile Virus (WNV) last season, with over 95 mosquito-positive samples collected by the Massachusetts Public Department of Health. The WNV Risk Map of Massachusetts showed moderate to high risk in Greater Boston, tracing moderate risk downwards through Southshore and Martha’s Vineyard last season.
Given the projected mosquito and tick-prone season, it’s advisable for local Boston residents, commuters, as well as those living in Southshore and visitors to Martha’s Vineyard, to err on the side of caution and plan for the worst by taking necessary precautions.
What you should do to not get bitten.
If you want to avoid the potentially harmful effects of mosquito and tick bites, there are several steps you can take. Firstly, make sure to wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when spending time outdoors, especially during the dawn and dusk hours when mosquitoes are most active.
Use insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to deter both mosquitoes and ticks. Remove any standing water around your home to prevent mosquitoes from breeding. When spending time in wooded or grassy areas, stay on cleared paths, and check your body and clothing for ticks regularly.
Lastly, if you notice any symptoms such as fever, rash, or joint pain after being bitten, seek medical attention immediately. By taking these precautions, you can reduce your risk of getting bitten by mosquitoes and ticks and protect yourself from their potentially harmful effects.
What you need to do to not get bitten.
If you want to enjoy a mosquito and tick-free yard this spring and summer, A1 Exterminators can help. With our effective and eco-friendly yard spraying solutions, you can protect yourself and your family from the harmful effects of these pests.
Our team of trained professionals will thoroughly inspect your property, identify potential breeding sites, and implement a customized treatment plan that targets mosquitoes and ticks where they live and breed. Our yard spraying service is designed to eliminate these pests and prevent their return, allowing you to fully enjoy your outdoor space without any worries.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a mosquito and tick-free environment.