Mosquitoes and ticks are more than just annoying outdoor pests. These biting insects are known carriers of serious diseases that can affect both humans and pets throughout the Mid-Atlantic region and beyond.
From itchy mosquito bites to potentially dangerous tick-borne illnesses, understanding the risks and taking preventative action can help keep your family safer outdoors.
Mosquitoes and ticks are considered disease vectors, meaning they can carry and spread bacteria, viruses, and parasites through their bites.
While many bites only cause mild irritation, others may expose people to serious illnesses that can lead to long-term health complications or, in rare cases, death.
As mosquito and tick populations continue to increase in many areas, the risk of exposure to these diseases also grows.
Mosquitoes are responsible for spreading several diseases worldwide. Some are more common in tropical regions, while others have been reported throughout the United States.
West Nile Virus is one of the most common mosquito-borne illnesses in the United States. It spreads between birds and mosquitoes before being transmitted to humans.
Many people experience mild or no symptoms, but severe cases can affect the nervous system and cause inflammation of the brain.
Common symptoms include:
EEE is a rare but serious viral disease spread by mosquitoes. Though uncommon, cases have been reported in the Northeast, including New Jersey.
Symptoms may include:
Young children and older adults are often at greater risk for severe illness.
Zika Virus usually causes mild symptoms, but it can be especially dangerous during pregnancy due to the risk of birth defects.
Symptoms may include:
More common in tropical and subtropical regions, dengue fever causes flu-like symptoms and, in severe cases, can become life-threatening.
Symptoms include:
Although less common in the United States, malaria remains one of the world’s most serious mosquito-borne diseases.
Symptoms include:
Without treatment, malaria can become life-threatening.
Ticks are another major concern throughout the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic region. These pests attach to humans and animals to feed on blood and may spread dangerous illnesses while feeding.
Lyme disease is one of the most common tick-borne illnesses in the United States, especially in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Common symptoms include:
If left untreated, Lyme disease can lead to long-term neurological and joint complications.
This bacterial disease can become serious if not treated early.
Symptoms may include:
Ehrlichiosis is another bacterial illness spread through tick bites.
Symptoms often include:
Babesiosis is caused by parasites that infect red blood cells and is becoming more common in parts of the Northeast.
Symptoms may include:
Reducing exposure starts with limiting pest activity around your property.
To help reduce mosquitoes around your home:
Mosquitoes breed in standing water, even in small amounts found in buckets, birdbaths, flowerpots, and clogged gutters.
To reduce tick activity:
Ticks commonly live in wooded areas, tall grass, and dense vegetation.
While preventative steps can help, professional mosquito and tick treatments can significantly reduce pest populations around your home.
Regular treatments can:
Professional pest control can also identify problem areas around your property that may be contributing to increased mosquito or tick activity.
Mosquitoes and ticks are more than seasonal nuisances — they can pose real health risks to your family and pets.
By staying proactive with prevention, reducing breeding areas, and addressing pest activity early, you can enjoy your outdoor spaces with greater peace of mind throughout the warmer months.