If you missed the recent news – mosquitoes that could carry yellow fever have been found in Florida. While this is far from home, the warm weather will soon arrive in New England, bringing an influx of bugs along. As you know, with mosquitos comes a myriad of potential diseases. While it may seem early in the season, MA mosquito control starts now. Being proactive provides peace of mind that you, your family, and your pets are protected this outdoor season.
What is yellow fever?
Although it’s extremely rare in the United States, yellow fever is a viral infection onset by a specific species of mosquito. Common to Central and South America as well as Africa, it’s a bit alarming that the mosquito has found its way to Florida.
As with most mosquito diseases, yellow fever is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pain with backache, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and jaundice. The ‘yellow’ refers to the jaundice that affects many infected patients. Once contracted, the virus incubates in the body for 3 to 6 days. While many experience no symptoms, others experience the above mentioned for 3 to 4 days. A small percentage of those infected enter into a second phase of symptoms 24 hours after the first round subsides.
The second, more toxic, round returns with a high fever and the onset of jaundice. Body systems such as the liver and kidneys are often affected, and bleeding can occur from the mouth, nose, eyes, or stomach. Half of the patients who enter into this second phase of toxicity die within 7 to 10 days.
Yellow fever is preventable.
Yellow fever can be prevented by a vaccine. According to the World Health Organization, this vaccine is “extremely effective, safe and affordable. A single dose of yellow fever vaccine is sufficient to grant sustained immunity and life-long protection against yellow fever disease. A booster dose of the vaccine is not needed. The vaccine provides effective immunity within 10 days for 80-100% of people vaccinated, and within 30 days for more than 99% of people vaccinated.”
MA mosquito control efforts.
While the WHO ranks vaccination as the number one route for prevention, mosquito control ranks second. In MA, mosquito control with AllGreen is one of the best ways to provide your family the outdoor protection they deserve. Our services, combined with a few other preventative methods, will ensure your outdoor season is an enjoyable one!
For more information on the MA mosquito control programs offered through AllGreen Lawncare please call (781) 762-7080.