3 Facts To Know About Mosquito-Borne Dengue Fever

Mosquitoes are an unavoidable part of life for most New Yorkers, and there are approximately 70 different species of mosquitoes in our state alone. And while mosquitoes can potentially be active any time of year in New York under the right circumstances, they are most active between April and October.

We often see mosquitoes as nuisances as their bites cause redness and irritation lasting three to four days and swelling lasting up to a week. Unfortunately, some mosquitoes carry diseases they can transfer to us with their bites. One of the most well-known diseases mosquitoes have been known to transfer in the past is the West Nile Virus, but it’s not the only disease they can spread.

Another disease that mosquitoes can transmit is lcalled Dengue, and this illness is spread through the Aedes species of mosquito. While all of us who remember the West Nile Virus outbreak coverage from 1999 understand that virus was dangerous, does that mean other mosquito-carried diseases like Dengue are also tricky?

1. Is Dengue Fever A Serious Disease?

Dengue fever does have the potential to be serious. Dengue fever is more prominent in tropical parts like the Caribbean. However, as the climate changes, we have seen outbreaks occur in Texas and Florida. And, of course, it’s entirely possible to contract Dengue fever from traveling.

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Mosquitoes that can carry Dengue fever live close to about half of the world’s population, leading to an average of 400 million people being infected each year and approximately forty thousand dying as a result of the disease. So while Dengue fever is far from being a death sentence, it can be a severe and life-threatening disease.

2. What Are The Signs Of Dengue Fever?

It takes a minimum of three days and up to a full two weeks before you might show signs of Dengue fever. Symptoms include fever, rash, nausea, vomiting, aches, and pains. Body aches as a result of Dengue fever can manifest as headaches, abdominal pain, backaches, joint pain, or even pain around the eyes. In severe cases, you may experience circulatory failure and shock, which can be fatal if not properly treated.

3. Will I Get Dengue Fever If Bitten By a Mosquito?

We may view mosquitoes as a nuisance, but they can be more than that. While it is improbable that you will contract Dengue fever from a mosquito bite on Long Island, the risk of an outbreak will continue to grow as the climate continues to change. It’s also important to remember that Dengue fever isn’t the only disease mosquitoes carry. Lyme disease is very active on Long Island, and the West Nile virus is also possible.

We Are East Suffolk County’s Trusted Name for Mosquito Control

Mosquito bites can annoy and give you days of discomfort, but they also pose serious health risks to you and your family. If you reside in eastern Long Island and need reliable mosquito control that is safe for your family and pets, look no further. For those living near Southampton, please call (631) 287-9700. If you are closer to East Hampton, please call (631) 324-9700. If you reside near Southold, please call (631) 298-0500. You can always send us a message through our website, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.