Bite Back Tick and Mosquito Control is warning of the risk of malaria in the United States after five cases of the mosquito-borne disease were confirmed in Florida and Texas in the past two months. This is the first time that locally acquired malaria cases have been reported in the United States in 20 years.
Malaria is a serious and potentially fatal disease that is caused by a parasite that is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. The parasite can live in the human body for months or even years, and symptoms can include fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. If left untreated, malaria can lead to severe complications, such as organ failure and death.
The mosquitoes that transmit malaria are typically found in warm, humid climates, such as those in Florida and Texas. However, the disease can be spread anywhere in the United States if an infected mosquito travels to a new area.
Bite Back Tick and Mosquito Control is urging people to take steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites, especially in areas where malaria is known to exist. These steps include:
- Wearing long sleeves and pants when outdoors
- Using insect repellent that contains natural ingredients, such as lemon eucalyptus oil, peppermint oil, or citronella oil
- Applying repellent to exposed skin every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating
- Draining standing water around your home
- Repairing holes in screens on windows and doors
If you think you may have been bitten by a mosquito and are experiencing symptoms of malaria, it is important to see a doctor right away. Malaria can be treated with medication, but early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent serious complications.
Bite Back Tick and Mosquito Control is committed to providing education and resources to help people protect themselves from mosquito-borne diseases.
Here are some of the natural ingredients that are effective in repelling mosquitoes:
- Lemon eucalyptus oil: This oil is derived from the leaves of the lemon eucalyptus tree and has been shown to be as effective as DEET at repelling mosquitoes.
- Peppermint oil: This oil is extracted from the peppermint plant and has a strong, minty odor that mosquitoes find unpleasant.
- Citronella oil: This oil is extracted from the citronella grass plant and has a lemony scent that mosquitoes avoid.
These natural oils can be applied to the skin or clothing to help repel mosquitoes. They can also be used to make insect repellent sprays or candles.
If you are concerned about the risk of malaria, you should talk to your doctor about the best way to protect yourself.
Don’t let mosquitoes ruin your outdoor fun. Contact Bite Back Tick and Mosquito Control today for a free quote and a mosquito-free yard. Call us at (732) 333-3379 or fill out our online form. We look forward to hearing from you!