Danger: Mosquitoes!

By Paul Brooks, The Green Team's Resident Turf Expert

Every year as the weather warms and summer vacations start, people head outdoors to hike, bike, swim, camp and play. Most people worry more about getting sunburned than getting bitten by a mosquito. Unfortunately, mosquitoes can transmit a variety of dangerous diseases, including West Nile virus, various forms of encephalitis, and - less common in the U.S. - malaria, chikungunya, dengue fever and others. The good news is you can take steps to limit your exposure to mosquito bites and still enjoy time outside!

Avoiding Pesky Mosquitoes

Mosquito Courtesy CDCGreenscape and Weed Man are strong supporters of the Come Alive OutsideTM movement, so our goal is to create and maintain outdoor spaces that draw people outside. We never want to hear someone say the mosquitoes drove them back indoors! So, here are some options to avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes:

1. Use mosquito repellent. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend products with DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or plant-based oil of lemon eucalyptus. If you don't want to spray around your face or hair, spray a hat and wear that. Pants and long sleeves may also help.
2. The mosquitoes that cause West Nile virus are active between dusk and dawn, so limit outdoor time during those hours or take precautions. There have been cases of West Nile virus reported in every state in the continental U.S. since 1999.
3. They also are more likely to be found in wooded or heavily planted areas than in open areas, so use mosquito repellent if you plan to work or play in such areas.
4. If you are going camping, use mosquito netting around your sleeping area.
5. In your home, ensure all windows you might open have screens and those screens are in good repair. Don't leave doors hanging open when mosquitoes are out. It's never fun to go to sleep bite-free and wake up with a red, swollen bite on your face!
6. If you will be traveling to areas of the globe where mosquitoes are prevalent, make sure to take precautions to avoid bites, and see your doctor if you show any signs of illness after you return home. Of note, dengue fever is becoming a real problem in Southeast Asia and Latin America, while malaria is prevalent in Africa. There are anti-malarial drugs available, but there can be risks associated with these drugs. Talk to your doctor if you plan travel to Africa.
7. Protect your pets, too. Mosquitoes can transmit heartworm disease to dogs and cats. Have your pets tested and ask the vet to put them on a heartworm preventative.
8. Support government mosquito control programs.
9. Consider having your property treated by a lawn care or pest company offering mosquito control services. (The Green Team offers basic and extended mosquito control programs.)

Learn About Mosquitoes

Mosquito Courtesy US Dept AgIt is possible one or more mosquitoes may get around your attempts to avoid their bites and get you anyway. Don't panic-only a small percentage of mosquitoes carry these diseases and actually transmit them to humans and animals. DO watch for any symptoms that may indicate a serious disease. According to the CDC, West Nile virus is the most commonly transmitted mosquito-borne illness in the U.S. While the majority of those infected have no symptoms, about 20% of those infected will develop a fever, body aches, rash, vomiting or diarrhea. One percent will develop a more serious neurologic illness (encephalitis or meningitis) that may present with high fever, stiff neck, headache, disorientation, coma, seizures or paralysis. Several other forms of encephalitis may also be transmitted by mosquitoes. If you or family members display these symptoms, or other symptoms after traveling overseas, see your doctor immediately.

Go Outside and Play

Kids PlayingThe risks of contracting a mosquito-borne illness are relatively low, so by taking some common-sense precautions, everyone can still head outdoors to play. The Green Team hopes you enjoy your summer and Come Alive Outside®!

About Greenscape Inc.

Greenscape Inc. was founded in 1979 and is headquartered in Holly Springs, NC. The firm operates multiple Weed Man® franchises in the Triangle and in Wilmington, NC. Our Green Team professionals provide commercial landscape management services and design/ build construction under the Greenscape brand, as well as a full range of residential lawn care services customized for each property under the Weed Man brand, including weed, insect and disease management, aeration and seeding, and mosquito control services. The Green Team is a proud supporter of the Come Alive Outside movement, encouraging people to live healthier lives outdoors. Visit our website at www.greenscapeinc.com.