A new breed of mosquito is making its presence well known in the U.S. According to NBC News, the Asian tiger mosquito invasion is currently underway. Scientifically known as Aedes albopictus, the Asian tiger mosquito has a real blood lust for humans. This uniquely designed critter also features menacing black and white stripes. The Asian tiger mosquito was first brought to Texas via a shipment of tires.
The latter is notoriously known for holding standing water that mosquitoes require for breeding. Unlike other common breeds, the Asian tiger is more aggressive. It continues to bite all day and night long. While it prefers humans, the mosquito attacks dogs, cats, birds, and other creatures. Suffice it to say, this breed of mosquito has sent fear into the hearts of even the bravest of souls.
Public Fear and Concern
The arrival of the Asian tiger mosquito has alarmed the general public. According to Dina Fonseca, associate professor of entomology at Rutgers University, “this breed of mosquito is incredibly aggressive. It is next to impossible to swat it off. Once the mosquito is on your arm, neck, or another part of the body, it does not let go.
It is not known if the Asian tiger mosquito is relegated to Texas. Reports of its existence have popped up in Florida and other Southern states. This breed of mosquito joins other insects now threatening the nation. This includes Gallinippers (Psorophora ciliate), a shaggy-haired mosquito with a stinging and painful bite. While the latter is found throughout Florida, the Asian tiger mosquito may expand its base throughout several leading cities in the U.S.
Diseases and Ailments
While all mosquitoes carry diseases, the Asian tiger reportedly transmits over 20. This includes West Nile virus, dengue/yellow fever, and encephalitis. It also transmits the chikungunya virus, which causes a range of symptoms. This includes severe joint pain, fever, bodily aches, nausea, vomiting, rash, and fatigue. Sadly, there is no known vaccine or treatment for those inflicted with the chikungunya virus. Medical experts, however, have stated that people usually recover within a few weeks.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, those inflicted with the virus are prone to getting bit by other mosquitoes. When this happens, the chance of spreading the disease to someone else increases. Since it arrived in the U.S. in the 1980s, the Asian tiger mosquito has spread to 26 states.
Experts within the CDC and other governing agencies are closely monitoring the expansion and movement of this dangerous insect. While the mosquito is primarily centered on the East Coast, there is a strong chance of the breed migrating all over the nation. The bug has also established footholds in South/Central America, Southern Europe, and several Pacific Islands.
Unique Outdoor to your Defense
If you spot these mosquitoes in your Houston home or yard, do not take it lightly. You should contact Unique Outdoor right away. Unique Outdoor offers timely, affordable, and effective mosquito control services. With years of industry experience, Unique Outdoor features state-of-the-art equipment that guarantees maximum eradication and results. This includes Mist Away Mosquito Misting Systems, along with monthly mosquito fogging services as well. From the Asian tiger to other mosquito breeds, Unique Outdoor is your first and last line of defense against these irritating and dangerous bloodsuckers.
For more information on Unique Outdoor Monthly Fogging services, please visit our sites or contact us today.
