Malaria, which spreads through infected mosquitoes, was eliminated from the United States in the 1950s. While most of the roughly 2,000 annual U.S. cases are tied to international travel, rare local cases have occurred, including five in the summer of 2023. SOS Exterminating provides resources and guidance to help homeowners protect their property from mosquito-borne illnesses. Residents in Arizona may still have questions about local mosquito activity and prevention.
What Everyone Should Know About Malaria
The bite of an infected female mosquito transmits Malaria. Common symptoms include fever, chills, body aches, headache, nausea, and fatigue, often resembling the flu. Without proper treatment, the disease can lead to serious complications such as organ failure, respiratory problems, and death. Prompt medical care is crucial for anyone who develops these symptoms after traveling to a Malaria-endemic region.
Do I Need to Worry About Malaria in the U.S.?
The recent appearance of Malaria cases in the U.S. highlights the importance of staying proactive with mosquito prevention. Even though Malaria cases have been rare, controlling mosquitoes is crucial to preventing other illnesses they carry, such as Zika, West Nile Virus, and Yellow Fever. Reducing mosquito populations and keeping them away from your family is key to protecting against mosquito-borne diseases. If Malaria were to see a wider resurgence, community-wide prevention efforts would be even more important.
How Can I Protect Myself From Mosquitoes?
Preventing Malaria and other illnesses carried by mosquitoes requires multiple strategies. The following methods are proven to help protect you and your loved ones from mosquito bites:
- Remove Standing Water:ย Female mosquitoes look for any standing water to lay their eggs. Check your yard regularly and empty containers, birdbaths, gutters, or other areas where water collects.
- Wear Protective Clothing:ย Mosquitoes canโt bite through clothing. Wearing long, loose-fitting sleeves and pants, especially in areas where mosquitoes are active, helps reduce bites.
- Use Repellents:ย DEET or picaridin-based repellents are proven to deter mosquitoes. Apply them whenever you spend time outdoors to protect yourself from bites.
- Get Professional Help:ย The most effective way to control mosquitoes in your yard is with professional treatments. Reach out to localย mosquito control expertsย who provide targeted mosquito prevention services.
Professional Mosquito Control in Arizona
The appearance of Malaria cases serves as a reminder that mosquito prevention is important in Arizona. Controlling mosquitoes helps lower the risk of disease and allows families to enjoy outdoor spaces safely.
SOS Exterminating offers comprehensive mosquito control services, creating plans that pinpoint and eliminate sources of mosquitoes around your property. Their expert team ensures effective, long-lasting results.
Contact SOS Exterminating today to receive a free quote and see how we can protect your home from mosquitoes.
480-497-1500