It’s no secret to anyone that the summertime is prime time for mosquitoes running rampant, especially in Georgia. However, given that mosquitoes are the deadliest animals in the world, homeowners often do not pay enough attention to these pests and shrug off what could become a big problem from a very small mistake.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) said this summer marks the earliest start to the West Nile virus season in the United States, with the highest number of human disease cases reported during this time of year since 2004. They urged Americans to stay safe and vigilant, and for good reason. So, why should you care?
Mosquito Exterminators Warn Mosquito Breeding Doesn’t Take Much
Around this time of year, consistent rainfall paired with hot weather fosters the mosquito breeding cycle, as they don’t need more than a bottle cap’s amount of water to reproduce. Georgia summers are often rainy, which means water is in abundance for mosquitoes looking to breed. This, combined with the severe heat in Georgia, creates an environment where mosquito egg-to-adult cycles can occur in as few as 7-10 days.
Fulton County Mosquitoes Test Positive for West Nile Virus
The Fulton County Board of Health Director, Dr. Brandon Leftwich, reported that several infected mosquitoes tested positive for West Nile Virus in the county. This finding came from the Grant Park area of Atlanta and indicates that more infected mosquitoes are present there, as there can never be just one mosquito.
In 2024 alone, there were 54 cases, 4 of which ended up being deadly, in Georgia. The actual number of cases was most likely a lot higher, as 24 blood donors later tested positive for the disease.
What is West Nile Virus?
West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne illness that can cause disorientation, fever, headache, body aches, vomiting, or a rash. Truly severe cases can lead to encephalitis or meningitis, as well as other illnesses that can affect the central nervous system, often leading to hospitalization or even death.
Around 2,000 people in the US are diagnosed with West Nile virus a year, but this number also may be much smaller than the actual number of people who contracted the disease, as many people either do not develop symptoms or believe mild symptoms are caused by other causes.
How Do I Get Rid of Mosquitoes on My Property?
The Fulton County Board of Health states that they work with mosquito control vendors, such as Peachtree Pest Control, to eliminate those mosquitoes if they are found in the area. They then visit the surrounding neighborhoods to raise awareness and educate residents on how to prevent mosquito bites and breeding around their homes.
How to Prevent Mosquito Bites: The 5 D’s
- Dusk/Dawn: Avoid any activities during dusk or dawn in the summer, as this is the time that mosquitoes are most active.
- Dress: Wear loose-fitting pants and long-sleeved shirts to reduce the amount of exposed skin for mosquitoes to bite.
- DEET: Cover any exposed skin with insect repellent that contains DEET, the most effective chemical designed to prevent mosquitoes.
- Drain: Empty any containers that may be holding standing water (buckets, barrels, flowerpots, or tarps) as they are the essential breeding grounds for mosquitoes, and they get to work on increasing their population fast.
- Doors: Make sure any doors or windows are closed, in good condition, fit tightly when closed, and do not have any torn or damaged screens.
It is also highly recommended to trim and remove overgrown grass and weeds from yards.
Call Peachtree Pest Control for Comprehensive Mosquito Treatment
There is actually a 6th D: Don’t forget to call Peachtree for mosquito control! Our mosquito exterminator team is ready to help your Georgia property remain mosquito-free so that you and your loved ones can focus on what matters most, without having to worry about these deadly pests.