Mosquitoes carry a range of diseases, and which ones matter depends on where you live. In Michigan, the two worth knowing are West Nile virus and Eastern equine encephalitis.
Mosquitoes carry disease. In fact, they’re the deadliest animal on the planet. In other parts of the world, they spread malaria, dengue, and Zika, just to name a few. The problem is not as bad in Michigan, but it’s still worth being aware of.
In Michigan, there are two main diseases to worry about. You have West Nile virus, which is the most common locally. Most people who get it have no symptoms or a mild flu-like illness. It can cause serious neurological disease, especially in older adults, and it does make an appearance most summers.
Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) is rarer, but scarier. It’s a lot more severe and has a high fatality rate. It can cause brain inflammation and it has become an increasing problem in Michigan in recent years.
Around the world, mosquitoes transmit malaria, which kills hundreds of thousands of people a year, along with dengue, Zika, chikungunya, and yellow fever. That’s why they have the grim reputation they do. It’s deserved. But those are mostly not established threats in Michigan, although dengue and Zika risks are always on the radar due to increased travel and a warming climate.
If you’re a pet parent, one more thing you should know about: heartworm. Dogs can get it and it’s the reason vets push a year-round heartworm prevention treatment. It only takes one infected bite.
If you're tired of swatting and wondering what each bite might carry, Mosquito Squad of Fenton - Brighton can help. Mosquito Squad reduces the mosquito population around your home, helping protect your family with up to 90% reduction in mosquito activity on a recurring 21-day cycle.
