Asian Tiger Mosquito Finds a Home in the United States

You wouldn’t have found this species of Mosquitoes in your backyard a year ago. That’s because it isn’t indigenous to the United States of America. The Asian Tiger Mosquito Aedes albopictus hitched a ride to the United States likely shipped from Japan. They first appeared in Texas and since then have spread to the mid-Atlantic and parts of the Midwest.

Asian Tiger Mosquito

Simple activities such as gardening during the day or shooting hoops may no longer be enjoyable. Unfortunately, the Asian Tiger Mosquito does not decimate against the time of the day. These blood suckers are guaranteed to strike at any time of day from morning to night.

Since it is the summer months and families are vacationing internationally, it’s important to do a number of things when traveling. It is important summer travelers check luggage and bags before returning to the states to ensure guests do not attach onto them on their way home.

“The U.S. is only a seven-hour flight from other continents such as Africa or South America, where different species of mosquitoes–and the diseases they carry–may be picked up and brought back,” continued Conlon. “Travelers should make sure their checked luggage and carry-ons are free of any pesky insects, like mosquitoes, before boarding flights,” said AMCA Technical Advisor Joe Conlon.

In addition, AMCA recommends the public practice the “Three Ds” of mosquito prevention—Drain, Dress and Defend:

• Drain: Empty out containers at least once per week. Fill in low-lying areas.
• Dress: Wear long sleeves, long pants and light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
• Defend: Properly apply an approved repellent such as DEET, picardin, IR3535 or oil of lemon-eucalyptus.

If mosquitoes are pestering you and your family call Green Lawn Fertilizing to help control them and make your summer more pleasant outside.