The El Niño weather pattern in 2024 has brought with it a concerning problem: mosquito outbreaks. As a result, some parts of the world are seeing a massive increase in mosquito-borne illnesses such as Dengue fever. Latin America has already seen a 400% increase in dengue fever cases than the previous five-year average.
With this disease becoming more common and getting so much media coverage, you may be wondering if it’s something to be worried about here in Long Island. Thankfully, the likelihood of getting Dengue fever in our area is very low—but, it’s still valuable to know what this illness looks like, how it spreads, and how you can reduce your risk of contracting it.
What Is Dengue Fever?
Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection that causes a flu-like illness. It is transmitted by the Aedes mosquitoes, which are primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. The disease is characterized by symptoms such as:
- High fevers
- severe headaches
- Pain behind the eyes
- Joint and muscle pain
- Skin rashes
In some cases, it can develop into dengue hemorrhagic fever, which can lead to serious complications and be potentially fatal. If you are experiencing any of those symptoms and are concerned that you may have contracted a mosquito-borne disease, consult a doctor right away.
How Does Dengue Fever Spread?
Though some people believe that Dengue fever spreads from person to person, that isn’t true; it exclusively travels through the bites of Aedes mosquitoes that have been infected with the virus. That said, if a mosquito bites an infected person, it will become a carrier and can therefore pass it on to more people. That’s why the best way to avoid the disease is to avoid mosquito bites by:
- Wearing long pants and sleeves
- Applying an EPA-approved mosquito repellant
- Eliminating sources of water that they can use for reproduction
- Avoiding going outside at dawn or dusk
- Invest in professional mosquito control services
Should You Be Worried About Dengue Fever?
Currently, the risk of contracting dengue fever in the United States is extremely low—comparable to the odds of winning the lottery. In 2023, only two locally transmitted cases were recorded in Florida.
However, these incidents highlight the potential for mosquito-borne diseases to spread to new areas. There are various theories as to why dengue fever has recently appeared in regions where it was previously not a concern. The CDC monitors and reports cases of dengue fever in the U.S., so you can always check their latest data for updates.
Mosquito Control Services in Long Island
While dengue fever is a significant threat in many parts of the world, the chances of encountering it in Long Island are currently very low. However, if you’re concerned about mosquito activity in your area, Arrow Exterminating is here to help. Our comprehensive mosquito control services are designed to protect your home and community from these pests. Just give us a call to get started today!
