West Nile Virus Cases Rise in Georgia: Why Mosquito Control Matters More Than Ever
Georgia is seeing an increase in West Nile virus activity, raising concerns that this season could become one of the state’s most significant outbreaks since 2012. Recently, mosquitoes collected from two surveillance traps in DeKalb County tested positive for the virus, prompting health officials to expand mosquito control efforts and encourage residents to take preventive measures.
Regionally, the Southeast part of the country has experienced a large increase in annual mosquito disease. As local agencies work to reduce mosquito populations by treating standing water with larvicides and increasing surveillance, homeowners also play an important role in protecting their families from mosquito-borne diseases.
Understanding the Risk of West Nile Virus
West Nile virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. While many people who become infected never develop symptoms, thousands experience mild illness each year.
Common symptoms may include:
- Headaches
- Body and joint aches
- Rash
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Although severe illness is less common, older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Severe symptoms may include:
- High fever (above 103°F)
- Intense headache
- Stiff neck
- Confusion or disorientation
- Vision loss, numbness or paralysis
West Nile virus is one of several diseases mosquitoes can transmit. Depending on the region, mosquitoes may also spread illnesses such as Zika virus, dengue fever, and other mosquito-borne viruses, making proactive mosquito management an important part of protecting public health. There is some good news. The overall rate of infection and the severity of resulting health effects from mosquito-borne diseases are much lower in the U.S. than in tropical and subtropical regions of the world.
Reduce Mosquitoes Around Your Home
One of the most effective ways to minimize mosquito bites is to reduce breeding sites on your property. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water, so eliminating these areas can significantly lower mosquito populations.
Simple steps homeowners can take include:
- Empty birdbaths, buckets, and flowerpot saucers regularly
- Keep gutters free of debris
- Remove standing water from tarps, toys, and outdoor equipment
- Maintain pools and water features properly
- Keep grass and shrubs trimmed to reduce mosquito resting areas
Personal protection is equally important. Health experts recommend wearing long, loose-fitting clothing when spending time outdoors and limiting outdoor activities around dawn and dusk, when the mosquitoes that transmit West Nile virus are typically most active.
Professional Mosquito Control Provides Lasting Protection
While do-it-yourself prevention helps, professional mosquito treatments offer an additional layer of protection by targeting mosquitoes throughout their entire life cycle.
Massey Services’ Mosquito Abatement Program begins with a comprehensive inspection of your property to locate mosquito breeding sites and shaded resting areas. Based on the findings, our trained pest technicians apply targeted treatments designed to eliminate adult mosquitoes while preventing larvae from maturing into biting adults.
Regularly scheduled treatments throughout mosquito season help maintain lower mosquito populations and provide ongoing protection, allowing your family to enjoy outdoor spaces with greater comfort.
By addressing both active mosquitoes and future breeding sites, Massey’s Professional Mosquito Control delivers longer-lasting results than relying on temporary solutions alone.
Act Now Before Mosquito Populations Increase
Mosquito populations can grow rapidly during warm, wet weather, making early intervention especially important. Whether you’re concerned about West Nile virus or simply want to enjoy your backyard without constant mosquito bites, reducing mosquito activity now can make a meaningful difference throughout the season.
Massey Services can schedule mosquito control service within 24 hours. After evaluating your property, our technicians will develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your home’s specific needs.
Don’t wait until mosquitoes become a bigger problem. Contact Massey Services today to schedule your free inspection and take the first step toward a safer, more enjoyable outdoor environment with fewer mosquitoes.