Mosquitoes have made the news in recent years thanks to the spread of the Zika virus and chikungunya virus in parts of the U.S. While these diseases can cause serious problems, they’re not the only ones. Scientists recently found a confirmed case of Keystone virus in a human for the first time. Find out more about this virus and why you should consider mosquito control services for your Hilton Head home as a precaution.
Keystone Virus in Humans
Scientists didn’t realize that this virus could be found in humans until recently. This is mainly due to the fact that humans usually aren’t tested for it. Until now, Keystone virus has been a disease that mainly affected animals in the southeastern part of the U.S. This recent case of the virus in a human is the first one ever discovered, but scientists now have reason to believe that it might be more common than previously thought, especially in northern Florida.
Mosquitoes and Keystone Virus
The Keystone virus is spread through bites from infected mosquitoes, but not all mosquito species carry this virus. Keystone virus is mainly found in bites from the Aedes Atlanticus mosquito species, which is a cousin of the mosquito species that spread Zika virus. Keystone virus was originally discovered back in 1964 in the Tampa Bay area. Over the years, Keystone virus has shown up in animals, such as deer and raccoons, in the southeastern U.S., including parts of Texas and the Chesapeake Bay area.
Signs and Symptoms of Keystone Virus
Keystone virus can cause mild symptoms, such as a fever and rash. However, in serious cases, it can cause encephalitis. This is brain inflammation that can have severe effects on brain cells. Scientists aren’t certain how big of a threat this brain swelling is for humans with Keystone virus, since they’re still learning more about how this virus affects people compared to animals.
Keystone Virus Treatment
At this time, there are no treatment plans in place for Keystone virus. As researchers learn more about this virus in humans, treatment plans should become available.
Keystone Virus in SC
How worried should you be about Keystone virus in SC? While there are no confirmed cases of this virus in people in SC, it’s still important to take steps to reduce mosquito problems on your property. You might not have to be concerned about Keystone virus at this time, but these bugs can still spread West Nile virus and other diseases in SC through their bites.
You should consider mosquito control services on your property as a way to prevent problems from occurring or to deal with existing mosquito populations. Our services keep these pests at bay and lower the risk of having to deal with new infestations.
Mosquito Bite Prevention
Although there aren’t any confirmed cases of Keystone virus in the Hilton Head area, you should still take steps to prevent mosquito bites when you’re outdoors. This helps protect you from West Nile virus and other illnesses that these pests can carry. You can lower your risk of mosquito bites by wearing a mosquito repellent and long-sleeved shirts when you’re outside. You should also cover up by wearing pants instead of shorts to prevent bites on your legs.
You can also discourage these pests from breeding in your yard by getting rid of standing water. Mosquitoes use these areas to lay their eggs, which can hatch in one or two days. Dump water from flower pots and planters, tires, pet bowls and bird baths when they’re not in use. You should also have mosquito control services treat your property to keep these pests away.
If you have a serious mosquito problem on your SC property, contact Island Pest Control. We offer a free 58-point inspection and dependable mosquito control services that are handled by state-licensed pest control professionals.
