Mosquitoes pose a serious threat to the residents of Louisiana. With dozens of serious illnesses and death resulting from mosquito bites over the past few years, the Louisiana Department of Health is urging residents in Lake Charles and across the state to exercise caution and take steps necessary to eliminate mosquitoes from their property. Below is a look at the risks associated with mosquitoes and the steps you can take to get rid of them.

What are some viruses and diseases associated with mosquitoes?

Mosquitoes pose risks that extend far beyond bites and itching. Being bitten by an infected mosquito can lead to life-threatening illnesses and diseases that can be resistant to treatment. Some of the top diseases associated with mosquitoes are as follows:

1) ZIKA VIRUS

"Having spread to almost every country in the Americas, on 1 February 2016, the Zika virus was declared a global public health emergency by World Health Organization Director-General Margaret Chan, who called it an 'extraordinary event'."

- Mosquito World

The Zika Virus is particularly dangerous to pregnant women because it can cause microcephaly, a rare birth defect that can cause a baby to be born with a head that is significantly smaller than average. The majority of people with Zika do not exhibit any symptoms or fail to realize that they have the virus because their symptoms are mild. The most common symptoms are fever, joint pain, rash, and conjunctivitis.

2) LA CROSSE ENCEPHALITIS

La Crosse Encephalitis is spread when a person is bitten by the Tree Hole mosquito. While this type of encephalitis is rare, severe cases can result in long-term disability, coma, or death. Common symptoms include nausea, headache, fever, and fatigue. Children under the age of 16 are most at risk for severe cases of this disease.

3) WEST NILE VIRUS

"Mosquitoes are out and biting and spreading West Nile virus. Protecting yourself is very simple and it could spare you from getting this disease."

- Dr. Raoult Ratard, Louisiana Department of Health Epidemiologist

Like Zika Virus, the West Nile Virus is another dangerous malady that may not produce any symptoms in affected persons. People who do develop symptoms may exhibit high fever, stiff neck, severe headaches, and tremors. Some affected persons may also experience paralysis, stupor, or coma.

How can you prevent mosquitoes from taking over your property?

Clearly, mosquitoes pose a serious health threat to Louisiana residents. Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to help rid your property of disease-carrying mosquitoes. Below are some of the tips offered by the Louisiana Department of Health to help protect you and your property from mosquitoes.

• Eliminate standing water on your property to help prevent mosquitoes from breeding near your home or business.
• Remove pots, cans, and other containers that could collect water from your property.
• Clean your gutters on a regular basis to remove standing water and stop mosquitoes from breeding in them.
• Make sure your doors and windows fit tightly and keep your screens free of holes.
• Drill holes at the base of your recycling containers to prevent water from accumulating in them.
• Wear a mosquito repellent containing DEET if you plan to be outside. Be sure to follow the recommendations on the product label.
• Refrain from wearing perfumes and colognes if you plan to be outdoors for an extended period of time.
• Wear pants and shirts with long sleeves if you will be outside for a long period of time.

What is the single most effective way to get rid of mosquitoes?

As outlined above, there are many steps you can take to prevent mosquitoes from taking over your property. However, the single most effective way to eliminate mosquitoes is to seek the services of a trusted pest control company. By enlisting the support of a professional mosquito control provider, you avoid putting yourself at risk and help ensure that your property is thoroughly screened for virtually every type of mosquito found in Louisiana. A leading pest control company can also provide ongoing monitoring of your property and help educate you about steps you should take to keep your property free of mosquitoes moving forward.

What are the top qualities to seek in a mosquito control provider?

Not all mosquito control providers are created equal. Separating the top pest control companies from the rest of the pack requires a careful evaluation and comparison of area providers. Some of the top qualities to seek in a pest control company are as follows:

• Licensed, bonded, and insured: Some fly-by-night providers lack a license and/or insurance, which could put property owners at risk.
• Complimentary estimates: Louisiana's leading pest control companies offer free quotes to consumers in need of an evaluation.
• Highly skilled: The most accomplished companies employ skilled technicians with extensive mosquito control training.
• Superb references: The best providers are highly regarded by the Chamber of Commerce, business associations, and customers alike.
• Cutting-edge technology: Backpack fogging and truck fogging are among the most effective techniques to eliminate mosquitoes.
• Professional memberships: Top providers are often registered with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and local pest control associations

Contact Cal-Cam to safely eliminate mosquitoes from your property

Finding a mosquito control company with all of the qualities above may seem like an impossible task. Fortunately, Southwest Louisiana is home to one of the top pest control providers in the state. Since 1988, Cal-Cam Termite and Pest Control, Inc. has provided five-star mosquito control services to the residents of Lake Charles and the surrounding areas of Louisiana. Cal-Cam is licensed, bonded, and insured for your protection.

The Cal-Cam team is proud to be one of the only pest control companies in the area with 8A-Mosquito Control Applicator certification that enables their technicians to offer mosquito fogging services out of the backs of trucks. As a member of the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Cal-Cam offers a total solution to property owners in search of a trustworthy mosquito control provider. We invite you to contact us today for a complimentary estimate. We look forward to helping you create a pest-free living environment!  

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