Looking forward to Spring Break? Watch Out for Mosquitoes!

If you’re traveling somewhere for Spring Break be prepared for mosquitoes.

Northwest Exterminating cautions travelers about mosquito-borne diseases

Many people are looking forward to escaping the winter chill by jet setting to a warmer destination during Spring Break, but they may find themselves with a biting problem – mosquitoes. Northwest Exterminating encourages Spring Break travelers, especially those visiting a tropical location, to take precautions to protect themselves from these blood-sucking pests.

Unfortunately, mosquitoes can inflict more then just painful bites. Travelers are at an added risk of contracting mosquito-borne diseases like West Nile virus, Malaria and Dengue Fever.

Anyone traveling to the Caribbean should also be aware of Chikungunya virus, an infection spread by Asian tiger mosquitoes that was recently reported in St. Martin. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the virus is characterized by fever, rash, fatigue, vomiting and intense muscle and joint pain that can last for weeks in serious cases.

The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) suggests the following tips to avoid mosquito bites while basking in the sun:

• Minimize outside activity, particularly at dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.
• If you must spend time outdoors during peak mosquito times, use an insect repellant containing DEET, picaridin or IR3535.
• Avoid wearing dark colors and floral prints, loose-fitting garments, open-toe shoes and sweet-smelling perfumes or colognes.
  • If bitten by a mosquito, clean the area thoroughly, avoid scratching, and apply anti-itch cream.
  • Seek prompt medical attention if you experience additional symptoms such as high fever, head and body aches, confusion or weakness.

For more information, visit our mosquito page.