Florida is home to 80 separate species of mosquitoes, making it No. 1 in the nation for these flying pests.

However, most residents will experience problems with about 33 species that affect humans and livestock. Of those, only 13 may transmit diseases in humans and animals. Each mosquito species has its own preference profile for types of blood, egg-laying habits, times and temperature of greatest activity and the season in which they thrive.

Mosquito dangers

Florida mosquito species can transmit three primary diseases to humans:

• West Nile virus may cause severe encephalitis in humans. The virus that causes the disease is a close relative of St. Louis Encephalitis, which is known to be carried by Florida mosquitoes. While most people exposed to West Nile virus will show no clinical symptoms, approximately 20 percent will develop illness that can progress to encephalitis.
• St. Louis encephalitis is transmitted to humans by the Culex mosquito. Young people infected with the virus may be asymptomatic. However, in older persons, the disease may induce coma and death.
• Eastern equine encephalitis is transmitted to both humans and horses. The virus is actually spread among Culiseta melanura mosquitoes by birds. Humans infected may show no symptoms or only mild flu-like illness. Serious infections may involve the central nervous system resulting in seizures and coma.

Mosquito control

Haggerty Pest Service is an authorized dealer for the XMosquito control system. This technology utilizes an automated spray of non-toxic, biodegradable pyrethrins registered with the EPA. The control unit activates the spray at dusk and dawn — the times of day of greatest mosquito activity. The XMosquito system makes mosquito repellant, candles and other marginally effective methods of spot control obsolete.

Since 1985, Haggerty Pest Service has strived to keep indoor and outdoor living in south Florida healthy and pest-free. Ask us about alternatives like the XMosquito control system to mitigate mosquitoes in your environment.