Because we provide mosquito control services in Whitman, we get lots of questions about mosquitoes. A recent caller wanted to know if we’d heard of the Aedes mosquito, and if she needed to be concerned about it on her property.
Here’s the thing – there’s 52 types of mosquitoes found in Massachusetts. Three fit into the category Aedes Mosquito – the Aedes albopictus, the Aedes cinereus, and the Aedes vexans. But none of these were the mosquitoes our caller was concerned about.
No, she wanted to know about Aedes scapularis. Aedes scapularis started making headlines a few years ago, as an invasive mosquito species that has been identified in Florida. The reason people are concerned about Aedes scapularis is it is a major disease vector. These biting insects have been known to carry Yellow fever, Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis, Ilheus virus, Rocio encephalitis virus, and Yunnan orbivirus. They also carry diseases bad for dogs and other pets.
So have we heard of Aedes scapularis? Absolutely. Should the typical Whitman homeowner be concerned about these new mosquitoes. Absolutely not. Aedes scapularis is a tropical and subtropical mosquito. It originated in the Caribbean and Latin America. Aedes scapularis is not capable of surviving Massachusetts winters. Scientists have worked out the fact that even if the mosquitoes flew here from Florida – a task that would take a while, given the mosquitoes tiny wings – they would not live long. It’s just too cold here for them.
If you’re traveling to Florida, the Caribbean, or Latin America, it is a good idea to avoid letting mosquitoes bite you. The use of bed screens and insect repellant saves lives. Mosquito prevention services in Whitman MA will help you avoid catching diseases from local mosquitoes. Additionally, staying indoors during times of peak mosquito activity, wearing light colored clothing, and using appropriate mosquito repellent when traveling around the neighborhood are all good best practices.
