About Mosquito Bites
Mosquitoes are common pests found mostly during the summer in areas with considerable standing water and following heavy rains. For reasons not well understood, men are more likely to be bitten by mosquitoes, as are overweight people and those with type O blood. Most mosquito bites are just itchy annoyances, but serious illnesses can develop and spread.
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Effects
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A mild sting or prick may be noticed when a mosquito bites, but most bites go unnoticed until the mosquito has finished feeding and flown away. Within a few minutes, a small bump develops at the site, surrounded by a red patch that is usually around 1/2 inch in diameter. Itching may continue for two to 10 days, but try to avoid scratching since it can intensify the itch and sometimes lead to infection.
Prevention/Solution
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Mosquito populations can be reduced by eliminating standing water in gutters, children's wading pools, birdbaths and other places. Using insect repellents that contain DEET or picaridin can help to prevent most bites, and clothing that covers as much skin as possible will offer additional protection. Mosquitoes are most active in the early morning and evening; limiting time spent outdoors during these times can also greatly reduce the chance of being bitten. Many over-the-counter creams and lotions are available to relieve itching and swelling caused by mosquito bites; antihistamine tablets are also effective but may cause drowsiness.
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Warning
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Mosquitoes contribute greatly to the spread of several dangerous illnesses, including West Nile virus, malaria, dengue fever and yellow fever. Symptoms vary but often include a flu-like illness accompanied by nausea, vomiting, severe headache, rash, jaundice (yellowing of the skin) and sometimes confusion. If you experience any of these symptoms following a mosquito bite, consult your physician immediately.
Geography
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Mosquitoes are present in most parts of the world, but the diseases they spread vary considerably from region to region. In the United States, West Nile virus is of the most concern. There have been cases of this disease throughout the entire U.S., but it occurs most frequently in California. Dengue fever is spread by mosquitoes in the tropical areas of South America, Africa and Asia. This also occurs in portions of Australia, coastal areas of Mexico and in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas. Malaria is most common in tropical zones within South America, Africa, Asia, and the Pacific Islands. Cases of mosquito-borne malaria have also been reported in portions of Mexico.
Function
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Mosquitoes bite humans and other mammals because it is necessary for the survival of their species. The female mosquito requires amino acids found in blood to produce eggs. They must drink blood each time they lay eggs; female mosquitoes produce several sets of about 250 eggs during their two- to three-week lifespan. Male mosquitoes do not consume blood; they subsist entirely on flower nectar.
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Resources
- Photo Credit Creative Commons image by Dan McKay
