The Deadly Mosquito – A Year-Round Problem for Florida

Did you know that the mosquito is the most-deadly animal in the world? Yes, it really is. Mosquitos kill more people than even sharks and snakes combined. Every year mosquitoes transmit hundreds of millions of infections and kill over 800,000 people.

Mosquitoes are most active in the United States from June through September. However, they will emerge as soon as the temperature is consistently above 55⁰ F. So what does that mean for Florida? A nearly year-round mosquito season.

Mosquito larvae are aquatic, so water is another factor in harboring mosquito populations. Anyone living in Florida knows that rainfall and aquatic areas are abundant throughout the state.

Florida is home to about 80 known species of mosquitoes—more than any other state. 33 are known to cause problems for people and pets, and 13 of them can carry serious diseases such as encephalitis, West Nile or Zika viruses.

Two of Florida’s most common mosquito species are Aedes albopictus and Psorophora ciliata. Aedes albopictus is commonly known as the Asian Tiger mosquito due to its black-and-white-striped body and legs. This mosquito is capable of carrying many viruses that can infect humans, such as yellow fever, dengue fever and Zika. In fact, in Hillsborough County there was recently a confirmed case of dengue fever.

Also native to Florida is the Psorophora ciliata which are larger than the Asian Tiger mosquitoes and they exhibit aggressive behavior toward humans and animals and it has a painful bite.

Since we live in the “Sunshine State” we should not have to worry about spending time outdoors. Call Mosquito Squad of Tampa Bay at (813) 534-5918 or email them at tampabay@mosquitosquad.com to learn about their guaranteed mosquito and biting insect control solutions. They will ensure that you, your family and pets are protected so you can enjoy the outdoors in the great sunshine state.