When horses start dropping dead from mosquito bites, eyebrows are raised. Within the past few months, here in Missouri, 6 horses have died from a mosquito-borne virus called Eastern Equine Encephalitis. To date, there have been 3 recorded human deaths reported to be caused by the same virus. What does this mean for Missouri homeowners? Are you and your family safe? Let’s find out.
What Is Eastern Equine Encephalitis?
Eastern Equine Encephalitis, also known as EEE, is a virus that causes brain inflammation. Within 4-10 days of being bitten by an infected mosquito, victims may start to exhibit the following symptoms:
- Severe Headaches
- High Fever
- Chills
- Vomiting
- Disorientation
- Seizures
- Coma
Studies have shown that this disease is fatal in 33% of humans and 90% of horses. As of right now, there is a vaccine available for horses but not one synthesized for humans. Even in survivors, cases of chronic neurological problems from severe brain damage are common, according to the CDC.
As of right now, cases of EEE have been recorded in 4 States: New York, Massachusetts, Florida, and Missouri. Although infections are rare within the US (only about 7 per year) recent studies show that this number is going up.
How Mosquitoes Get Onto Properties
As you probably already know, mosquitoes are small, flying, blood-sucking insects. What you may not know is that mosquitoes need still bodies of water to breed and reproduce. If sources of stagnant water are present on your property, mosquito populations will be higher. To fight back against mosquitoes, find these sources and eliminate them. This will help reduce your risk of being bitten and potentially infected.
How You Can Protect Yourself
As researchers establish how much of a threat EEE is here in Missouri, you should be taking every step necessary to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. When out and about, try wearing light-colored clothing with long sleeves and pant legs. In addition to this, try avoiding floral perfumes and other body scents. As an extra level of caution, mosquito repellent should be used, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
How Augustine Can Help
We cannot protect you when you leave your property. We can, however, make sure your property is as resistant to mosquitoes as possible. Using top-of-the-line mosquito treatments and advanced mosquito abatement techniques, our professionals will take care of your property as if it were their own. The last thing we want is for our community to suffer from the dangers mosquitoes pose.
For help with your mosquito problems, give the professionals here at Augustine Exterminators a call today. We are here to help keep you safe from EEE and other mosquito-borne diseases.