Mosquitoes are an annoying pest, especially if they are present in large numbers near your home. You may think of these pests as simply an annoyance, but there are many more reasons why mosquito control is so important. Read on to learn about how mosquito control removes the chance of painful and irritating bites as well as dangerous diseases.

Mosquito Control Prevents Illness

Mosquitos have been known to carry several dangerous diseases, including malaria and West Nile virus. Malaria is most commonly a problem in underdeveloped areas, but West Nile virus has been a major issue in various parts of the United States for several years. The symptoms of this illness can be very dangerous, and keeping your family safe from this disease is one of the reasons that mosquito control is so important.

West Nile virus originates in birds, and when mosquitoes bite these infected animals they can contract the disease themselves. From there the virus can be spread to humans or other animals (most commonly horses) with just one bite. Unlike many diseases where obvious symptoms can lead to early diagnosis and treatment, West Nile shows no signs until it is too late. If any signs are present they are likely to appear very mild in nature. This serious virus can lead to swelling of the brain or spinal cord, which can result in many medical problems or even death. West Nile virus progresses even faster in people with an already weakened immune system, such as children and elderly patients.

There are occasionally some mild symptoms that can be the result of West Nile virus. These include, but are not limited to:

• Low-grade fever

• Aches and pains in both the head or eyes

• Skin irritation, especially on the chest or arms

• Fatigue

• Loss of appetite

• Nausea

• Swollen lymph nodes

Mosquitoes Can Be Easily Controlled

The worst thing about diseases that are spread by mosquitoes is how easily they can be prevented. In addition to chemical repellant sprays that are available in many stores, there are many all-natural approaches to controlling mosquitoes in your yard. These blood-sucking pests are naturally averse to the scent of many essential oils and herbs. Introducing these aromas to your yard can practically eliminate the chance of these pests taking up residence near your home. Some of the best natural mosquito remedies include:

• Catnip is a favorite herb of feline friends, but mosquitoes hate it. Planting catnip in your garden or even sprinkling store bought herbs throughout your garden can be an easy way to keep these pests at bay

• Citronella is the most common scent that is associated with mosquito control, and it is a highly effective one. A few citronella candles or torches in your yard will not only keep your family from being bit by these pests, it keeps them from entering your yard at all.

• Many easy to grow herbs repel these pests naturally, including lavender, rosemary and peppermint. A small herb garden can go a long way in keeping these pests at bay, and it can save money that you would spend buying these herbs in the grocery store.

If you’re worried about these pests and haven’t had luck with all-natural approaches to mosquito control, you should get in touch with a licensed pest control provider. They have access to the tools and treatments required to remove all signs of mosquitoes from your property. Give a pest control provider in your area a call today and see if they offer mosquito-specific treatment options. Don’t put your family at risk of West Nile disease and other hazards associated with these pests, seek out the best mosquito control treatment for your home today.