Mosquitoes aren’t just a nuisance, they can be dangerous. Believe it or not, more people die from Malaria each year than by auto accidents and cancer combined. You’re probably not likely to contract Malaria anytime soon but other diseases like Hepatitis and West Nile are transmitted by mosquitoes all over the US. Here are the Top 10 most mosquito-ridden states in the country this time of year.

10. Virginia – Over 30% of Virginia residents report using bug spray “all the time” in the summer months. From Richmond to Virginia Beach, mosquitoes are a big problem. So much so, in fact, that some cities hire sprayer trucks to roam neighborhoods spraying pesticides at night.

9. Montana – Surprisingly, mosquitoes love Montana. Researchers think the excess of water sources and animal blood to feed on are probable reasons, but wear spray if you’re visiting Yellowstone National Park.

8. Oklahoma – So close to Texas, the epicenter of West Nile cases, OK has more than its fair share of mosquitoes. With inadequate Air Conditioning in many homes, bugs can easily thrive.

7. South Dakota – Some may be surprised by the appearance of relatively-dry South Dakota on the list but the state gets a lot of bites. West Nile is big here and with so much outdoor activity come summer, people can be reckless outdoors.

6. Alabama – From the natural beaches to the swampy, rainy inland, Alabama has all kinds of climates mosquitoes find hospitable. Birmingham, in particular, has a major mosquito problem.

5. North Carolina – Both of the Carolinas have a big mosquito problem, but NC’s higher population means bug-borne diseases are a bigger issue.

4. Georgia – Georgia’s notoriously hot and humid come summer, and the bugs love it. Atlanta in particular is a hotspot for mosquito activity and GA is in the top-ten list for reported cases of West Nile, too.

3. Louisiana – It comes as no surprise the Bayou is a haven for mosquitoes. From New Orleans to the upstate, LA’s relatively undeveloped landscape and swampy grasslands attract all kinds of mosquitoes.

2. Texas – Unfortunately, The Lone Star State has the most cases of West Nile Virus in the  country. With over 30 people dead and 1000+ infected in past years alone, Texas is a bad place to get bitten.

1. Florida – Sure, FL’s got sunshine and beaches but they’ve also got more “skeeters” than any other state in the US. Between the muggy temperatures, lots of standing water, and active tourism industry, Florida is a haven for bugs.

As you’ll notice, most of these cities are located in the Southeast. If you have an issue with mosquitoes in your area, give a licensed pest control expert a call today!