Danger in the desert
Mosquitoes are known to carry West Nile Virus and Yellow Fever, however in Arizona; the mosquitos are also now carrying St. Louis Encephalitis. The symptoms are similar to that of West Nile, flu like headache and muscle ache and sometimes the virus can invade the brain and spinal cord. Although it is rare, West Nile can cause paralysis and even death.
With the possibilities and outcomes, these mosquitoes are particularly dangerous to the elderly, small children and those with chronic illnesses. There is no treatment or cure for either of the diseases St. Louis Encephalitis or West Nile Virus. Prevention is absolutely vital.
How do you prevent those pesky mosquito bites that could be deadly? Well, less skin is always better; covering yourself with long sleeves and pants are an option, but not really a great one in the heat of Arizona. Instead of being a walking sweat lodge, you can try some natural choices like oil of lemon eucalyptus or lemon extract. You can also choose to use Deet or another spray on pesticide. Mosquitos breed in standing water, so make sure you keep buckets upside down and away from homes. Also clean out your bird baths and outdoor dog bowl to prevent the reproduction of more mosquitos.
For more information on mosquitos, click here
