Mosquito Species and the MASTF

An understanding of the mosquito species involved enables more effective treatment. For example, the Metro Atlanta Surveillance Task Force (MASTF) was set up in 2000 to tackle the threat of the West Nile virus. The Asian Tiger and Southern House mosquito species both carry the West Nile virus, and as such offer a specific threat to the elderly and the very young. The threat to adults with a healthy immune system is low because they are able to fight it off.

Each of these species tends to live close to their breeding site which can be as small as a can of water or even a bird bath. For that reason they are known as ‘container breeders’ as opposed to other species that require larger expanses such as marshland, riversides and lakes. Because of this, they present a specific problem to homeowners.

Mosquito Species and Disease

Most mosquito species carry one disease or another. The Asian Tiger Mosquito can also carry the chikungunya virus, as does the yellow fever mosquito. Each of these three species are common in Georgia. The Asian Tiger is unlike many other mosquitoes in that it is active throughout the day, not only just at dawn and dusk. Both of these species can live in urban areas in addition to suburban yards and gardens. The Asian Tiger will rarely stray much more than a quarter mile from its base, while the Southern House Mosquito will fly more than twice that for a meal of human or animal blood.

It has been said that only 1% of people bitten by a mosquito carrying West Nile Virus will develop severe illness, and that 80% will show no symptoms at all. However, you must keep in mind that in the Metro population of 5 million, 1% equates to a potential 50,000 people, assuming all are bitten at least once. 20% is one million! West Nile Virus can lead to a swelling of the brain known as encephalitis, a condition that can lead to death.

The chikungunya virus can cause fever and severe pain in the joints. There is no known cure for this, and there has also been no vaccine developed to protect people from contracting the disease. The same is true for West Nile virus, and in each case the only means of prevention is to avoid being bitten. Mosquito control systems are therefore essential to all residents – and keep in mind these are only two of over 170 mosquito species currently active in the USA.

Mosquitoes are everywhere

The ATL is the worst city in the USA for mosquitoes – or perhaps the best, because mosquitoes seem to love the place! This is due to the proximity of so many rivers, streams, creeks and lakes to the city and its surrounding communities. In order to protect yourself and your family from being bitten and the resultant potentially serious consequences, you should take steps to protect your home.
Mr. Mister offers a number of possible solutions to your problem, but first we have to survey your home and its surroundings to assess the potential extent of your problem. We can then offer you the solution we think best for you – both on a short term basis and over the longer term. Your yard might need an initial mosquito spray treatment to control mosquitoes currently active or breeding in still or stagnant water. It may then require an automatic mosquito misting system that regularly covers your foliage in a fine mist of insecticide that acts as a virtual mosquito barrier.

mosquito species can carry very nasty diseases. If you believe that you have a need to protect your home now or next spring, then contact us at the number below and discuss your needs with us. If you prefer to email then use our Mosquito Control Contact Form.

Mr. Mister Mosquito Control
4016 Flowers Rd #400
Atlanta, GA 30360
(404) 941-0720