Should I Be Concerned About Malaria In St. Johns County?

In recent weeks, there has been quite a bit of chatter on social media and in the news about reported cases of Malaria right here in Florida. Naturally, this raises concern among residents of St. Johns County and the surrounding area. At a time when natives are enjoying more outdoor activities with milder autumn temperatures knocking at the door, it is important to quell these fears.

The state reported its 7^th confirmed locally contracted case of Malaria in late July. There is also concern about increased mosquito populations, thus elevating the risk of mosquito-borne-illness, as a result of Idalia’s aftermath.

What Is Malaria?

Malaria can be a fatal disease if left untreated, with about 2,000 cases reported annually in the United States. It is caused by a parasite that can infect mosquitoes that bite humans. People can contract malaria from an infected female Anopheles mosquito. In this instance, the mosquito must have been infected with malaria through a previous blood meal taken from an infected person.

Symptoms of the disease closely resemble those of the flu, which can include chills, fatigue, headache and muscle aches, nausea, vomiting and in many cases a high fever. If malaria symptoms are not immediately diagnosed and treated, as the disease can result in the loss of red blood cells, resulting in anemia and jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes). Additionally, long- Malaria can lead to kidney failure, seizures, and in some cases death.

I Thought Malaria Was Eradicated In The US?

Although Malaria was officially considered eradicated in 1951, the CDC reports they usually see about 2,000 cases of the disease per year. These cases are the result of the disease being acquiring while traveling abroad. What is different in the cases reported in Texas and Florida just this year, are they were caused by those that became infected while her in the US from native mosquitoes.

How Can I Reduce My Risk?

Prevention and control are the key to reducing your risk of contracting any mosquito-borne illness. This includes Malaria, along with West Nile, EEE and other diseases and illness that are spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquito Squad of Northeast Florida can help keep you and your family protected on the home front. In addition to teaching you about the 7 T's of mosquito control, Mosquito Squad can also provide you with a mosquito barrier treatment that helps you protect your property against mosquitoes. We also offer a natural mosquito treatment option.

In addition to reducing your risk at home, we also offer options for your business and any outdoor events with our commercial services and special event sprays.

We Are Committed To Wiping Out Malaria Locally and Globally

As mosquito control experts, we know that mosquitoes are much more than a nuisance. These creatures carry deadly diseases, with the most common being Malaria. Mosquito Squad has a partnership in place with Malaria No More, a nonprofit organization committed to stopping malaria deaths in Africa. Over the years, we have raised over $450,000 to support Malaria No More's mission.

Also Read: Mosquito Control At Forefront, Dengue Cases Confirmed In Florida

Call Mosquito Squad of Northeast Florida at (904) 844-0816 to learn more about our mosquito control services.