As mosquito season reaches its peak, Public Health officials in Ohio are remaining cautious of the La Crosse (LAC) Encephalitis Virus, a mosquito-borne virus carried by Aedes triseriatus mosquitoes.
From 2003-2021, the CDC reported 404 reported cases of LAC in Ohio, the highest La Crosse Virus Cases Nationwide.
What is La Crosse Encephalitis?
La Crosse (LAC) encephalitis is a disease caused by the bite of an infected Aedes triseriatus mosquito with the LAC virus and can cause inflammation of the brain. There are 50-150 cases of LAC reported each year in the United States.
Symptoms of LAC
Most people with the LAC virus have no apparent illness, however, the initial symptoms of those who become ill include the following:
- Fever
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Tiredness
It takes five to 15 days after the bite of an infected mosquito to develop symptoms of LAC and is most frequently seen in children younger than 16.
Preventing LAC Virus
There is currently no vaccine or medicine to prevent or treat LAC infection. The best way to reduce your chance of infection is by preventing mosquito bites.
The CDC recommends the following:
- Use an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellent and wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when outside.
- Repair or install screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes outside.
- LAC virus can survive the winter in mosquito eggs that will hatch into infected mosquitoes in the spring. Stop mosquitoes from laying eggs in or near water. Once a week, empty and scrub, turn over, cover, or throw out items that hold water around your yard.
Professional Mosquito Control Service
With your efforts to prevent mosquito-borne diseases, enlisting the help of a professional mosquito control service is as an essential line of protection. A professional mosquito control service brings a comprehensive and strategic approach to combatting mosquitoes, utilizing specialized knowledge and techniques to effectively reduce mosquito populations.
At MissQuito, we identify high-risk areas, implement targeted strategies, and monitor progress to ensure a thorough and sustainable mosquito control solution. By utilizing professional mosquito control services, you are not only safeguarding your immediate surroundings but also contributing to the collective effort of minimizing the spread of these diseases, promoting healthier communities, and fostering a safer environment for everyone.