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Mosquito Infestation Myths and Misconceptions

Mosquitoes have always been a big nuisance for people living in Illinois. They are small in size but vectors for some pretty severe diseases. People have developed a plethora of myths and misconceptions about mosquitoes that need to be addressed.

Collinsville pest control service helps people in the area to effectively deal with such infestations and prevent families from falling ill. Let’s bust some of the myths surrounding mosquito infestations now to implement control measures more effectively and prevent unnecessary panics.

Myth- All Mosquitoes Transmit Diseases

A huge misconception about mosquitoes is that all species carry diseases, which is not really true, and only a fraction of those 3000 species actually carry diseases.

For example, Aedes aegypti spreads dengue, Zika, and chikungunya, while Anopheles spreads malaria. A good proportion of mosquito species do not pose any significant threat to humans

Myth- Mosquitoes Are Only Active at Dawn and Dusk

Some mosquitoes are indeed primarily active late in the evening or early morning. Still, species like Aedes aegypti bite during the day because they are pretty aggressive and do not really care about the time, which makes it essential to stay alert during the daytime, too.

Myth- Mosquitoes Are Attracted to Specific Blood Types

A belief exists among people that mosquitoes are attracted to some specific blood types, while some studies have shown mosquitoes are more attracted to O-type blood. Still, the primary factors behind attraction are body heat, the presence of some particular bacteria and skin chemicals, and the exhalation of carbon dioxide. 

Blood type is not the sole basis of attraction for mosquitoes, and there are numerous factors involved

Myth- Ultrasonic Repellents Are Effective

Ultrasonic mosquito repellents are devices that emit sound waves with high-frequency and are marketed as a chemical-free solution to deal with mosquitoes. Still, numerous scientific studies have shown that such devices are largely ineffective. 

The ultrasonic sounds do not actually affect the hearing that mosquitoes possess, which makes such products a mere waste of money and gives people a false sense of safety.

Myth- Only Stagnant Water Breeds Mosquitoes

Almost everyone is aware that stagnant water serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes. But, many people think that merely large and prominent water pools are the problem, which is not really true.

Mosquitoes can breed in small amounts of water, too, found in places like plant saucers, clogged gutters, and even caps of bottles, which makes it essential to get rid of any potential site for breeding, irrespective of the size.

Role of Professional Pest Control

Mosquitoes, irrespective of the species, are annoying and create nuisance. Even if most of the species are not a significant threat to humans, it is always better to stay protected, which is why professional pest control services are recommended because they possess the proper knowledge and equipment needed to deal with such infestations.