The answer to the riddle, the Asian Tiger mosquito, of course

People in the Southeastern United States are already well acquainted with the Asian tiger, named for the distinct black-and-white marking similar to its namesake. But these mosquitoes are creating quite a buzz as they drift northward into more temperate climates along the East Coast, such as in New York, where their eggs can survive even the coldest of winters.

The Asian Tiger mosquito is fairly new to the US, only arriving in North American ports in Texas via a shipment of used tires from Asia in 1985. Since their arrival, the Asian Tiger has quickly acclimated itself to American soil, and increased rapidly in numbers here in the US. It's an invasive species and has quickly taken up residence in 27 states spreading its reign of terror as far up the East Coast as Maine.

Asian Tigers are known vectors of mosquito-borne illness. Here in the United States, they are a carrier of 5 viruses that can be passed onto humans including the deadly West Nile Virus and a host of Encephalides. They are also known to be more aggressive and inflict a bite that is more painful than that of other mosquito species - hence the similarities to their namesake, the tiger.

This mosquito is also referred to as the “Forest Day mosquito” because it feeds primarily during the day which is a far cry from the evening feeding mosquitoes we have come to know and hate. Asians will feed at night as well, but predominately feed when a full moon is present, which adds to the macabre character of these mosquitoes.

The breeding habits of this mosquito are also different in that they are “container breeders”. They don’t need to seek out a creek bed or bird bath to lay their eggs. They prefer smaller pockets of moisture such as holes in trees, empty soda cans and small containers such as the corners of flower pots. Their unique breeding habits combines with the ability of their eggs to “overwinter” makes for a double menace to homeowners.

New York’s history with mosquito-borne illness is a reminder of how vicious an insect the mosquito actually is.Touted as the deadliest creature on earth, the mosquito is responsible for more illness and death than any other animal, and has killed more people than all our wars combined. You may think that mosquito-borne illness is something that only happens in third world countries when actually, nothing is farther from the truth. Mosquitoes can transmit a host of illnesses and diseases. This mosquito is known to infect people with West Nile virus and other illnesses with just one bite!

According to the New York State Department of Health West Nile virus was first discovered in New York State in 1999. Since 2000, 490 human cases and 37 deaths of WNV have been reported statewide. Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) is a rare but serious illness. Mosquitoes infected with EEE virus cannot only infect people, but equine and other mammals as well. Five human cases of EEE in New York State have been reported since 1971. These cases were reported in 1971, 1983, 2009, 2010 and 2011. All five cases ended in death.

Most people infected with EEE or West Nile Virus do not develop any signs or symptoms. If illness develops, symptoms usually occur 3-15 days after the bite from an infected mosquito. Symptoms of EEE and WNV can be similar, but EEE is a much more serious illness. People with mild cases of mosquito-borne disease may develop fever, headache, body aches and occasionally a skin rash or swollen glands (lymph nodes). People with severe cases of EEE or WNV usually have a sudden onset of headache, high fever, neck stiffness, muscle weakness, altered mental status, tremors, convulsions, paralysis, and inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) or the membranes of the brain and spinal cord (meningitis) or coma.

The best way to avoid coming into contact with this beast is to make sure to inspect your property at regular intervals for objects and areas that pool water. This is especially important following rainfall. In addition keep bushes, shrubbery and grass clippings picked up as to not harbor moisture. These safeguards combined with an effective mosquito control program will reduce the number of mosquitoes in your yard.

Mosquito Squad of Fairfield and Westchester County offers a barrier spray design to eliminate ticks and mosquitoes from your yard. Getting started is easy and worry free. Our rotation program ensures mosquito control all summer long.

Grab the “tiger by the tail” this season by contacting us today to sign up for your season-long protection • (203) 832 - 9500 • email: fairfield.county@mosquitosquad.com