Should You Worry About Mosquito-Borne Diseases in Georgia?

A Mosquito, Possibly Infected with Mosquito-Borne Disease, Bites a Human in Georgia

Mosquito biting a person in georgia with unknown risks about mosquito-borne disease transmission possibility

In Georgia, the warm spring and summer evenings are often accompanied by the unwelcome buzz of mosquitoes. While mostly a minor irritant, it’s crucial to remember that mosquitoes can also be carriers of serious diseases. Malaria and Zika virus dominate headlines globally, but our local region must remain vigilant about Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and West Nile Virus. These diseases are rare, but real risks exist. 

In this blog, we’re here to set the record straight with facts about mosquito-borne illnesses in Georgia, helping you understand the risks and how to protect your loved ones.

Do Mosquitoes in Georgia Carry Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)?

Yes, mosquitoes in Georgia can transmit Eastern Equine Encephalitis, although cases are rare. This virus can affect humans and horses, posing a severe risk in the few instances of human infection. While there is a vaccine available for horses, no such vaccine exists for humans, emphasizing the importance of prevention. 

Here are some symptoms to watch for:

  • Sudden onset of headache
  • High fever
  • Chills
  • Vomiting
  • Severe neurological issues (in extreme cases)

Do Mosquitoes in Georgia Carry West Nile Virus?

Yes, mosquitoes in Georgia are also carriers of West Nile Virus. Although again rare, the potential for infection exists and should not be underestimated. The Georgia Department of Health has recorded 81 cases between 2018 and 2022, proving that vigilance is necessary. Most people infected with West Nile Virus may not exhibit symptoms, but it’s vital to be aware of the signs, especially since severe cases can lead to serious health issues. 

Symptoms include:

  • Mild fever
  • Headache
  • Muscle pain
  • Fatigue
  • Neurological effects in severe cases

Which Mosquito-Borne Diseases Are in Georgia?

How big of a risk are mosquito-borne diseases in Georgia really? Let’s go down the list of common mosquito-borne diseases and whether there have been any recent locally transmitted cases.

  • Malaria: No recent cases
  • Dengue: No local cases – about five cases per year occur after travel
  • Schistosomiasis: None
  • Yellow Fever: No recorded cases
  • Zika Virus: No record of any locally transmitted cases in Georgia

Good news, right? The risk is relatively low. While that is true, it’s important to remember that malaria and Zika cases have been reported in Florida, just one state away. This underscores the fact that even though the current risk is low, continued vigilance is still important.

Why Is It Important to Monitor Mosquitoes Even If They Don’t Carry Disease?

Mosquito monitoring remains critical even in regions where disease transmission is currently low. The keyword here is “currently.” Mosquito populations and the diseases they carry can shift geographically over time. Changes in climate and human movement can introduce new mosquito-borne diseases to areas previously unaffected. 

However, by keeping an eye on these populations and potential disease carriers, we can stay one step ahead of possible future outbreaks.

Call Georgia’s Mosquito Control Experts Today

While the risk of contracting mosquito-borne diseases in Georgia remains low, the presence of diseases like Eastern Equine Encephalitis and West Nile Virus underlines the importance of proactive mosquito control. 

In a state known for its humid climate, mosquito populations can thrive, making professional mosquito control not just a convenience but a necessity. Protect your home and family; call us today for a free estimate on comprehensive mosquito control services.

Everything You Need to Know About the Joro Spider in Georgia

Joro Spider with Active Pest Control serving Calhoun, GA

Joro Spider with Active Pest Control serving Calhoun, GA

Have you recently experienced an unexpected encounter in your own backyard, coming face-to-face with a spider that’s anything but ordinary? If you’ve noticed a strikingly large spider with a web that seems to command the space between your trees, you’re not alone. Many residents in Georgia have reported sightings of what is believed to be the Joro Spider, a species of orb-weaver spider that has been gradually making its way across the eastern United States. 

This guide is tailored for you, aiming to demystify the presence of this intriguing arachnid in your surroundings and if spider extermination intervention is needed. 

Identifying the Joro Spider: 

The Joro Spider, with its sizeable physique and vibrant colors, easily stands out from the more familiar spiders you might encounter. This difference is particularly pronounced between males and females due to sexual dimorphism, a biological phenomenon where the two sexes of the same species exhibit different characteristics beyond their sexual organs.

Here’s how to tell male and female Joro spiders apart:

Female:

  • Size: Large, with a body length of about 0.75-1 inch and a leg span of up to 4 inches.
  • Color: Bright yellow and blue body with distinctive red markings.
  • Web: Builds large, intricate webs that can span up to 10 feet.

Male:

  • Size: Noticeably smaller than their female counterparts.
  • Color: Darker, less vibrant, with more subdued colors.
  • Web: Does not build webs as females do.

The Joro Spider’s web is a marvel in itself—large, golden, and incredibly robust, effectively capturing a wide array of insects.

Where is the Joro Spider Found?

Initially believed to need a large natural habitat in tropical climate for optimal survival, the Joro Spider has defied expectations by showcasing an impressive capacity to acclimate to diverse environments, even thriving in urban landscapes. Observations of their proliferation near highways and within cities have underscored their remarkable adaptability, prompting inquiries into the extent of their potential range expansion. 

Is the Joro Spider Dangerous?

Despite their imposing appearance, Joro spiders typically pose minimal threat to humans. While possessing fangs with the capability to bite, these arachnids generally exhibit timid behavior, preferring to retreat rather than engage in confrontation. 

The History and Future of Joro Spiders: 

Originating from East Asia, the Joro Spider is thought to have been inadvertently brought to the U.S. via shipping containers, leading to their presence in various states, including Georgia.

As for the Future of the Joro Spider in Georgia, it appears that the Joro Spider is here to stay. With their adaptability and successful breeding patterns, their numbers are likely to grow, further embedding themselves into the local ecosystem.

Got Questions About Spiders?

While the arrival of the Joro Spider in Georgia may initially bring unease due to its size and unfamiliar appearance, it’s crucial to remember that they are largely harmless. However, understanding and cohabitating with new species can be challenging.

If you find yourself concerned about the Joro Spider or any other pest issues, contact Active Pest Control for expert advice, information, and specialized spider removal services. Our team is equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to address any pest situation, ensuring your home remains a safe and comfortable environment.

 

 

Late Summer Pests

Mosquitos on screen in Georgia

Mosquitos on screen in GeorgiaAs the sun begins to set on summer, the allure of its warmth still lingers in Georgia. Residents are savoring the last moments of this season – grilling up delicious cookouts, preparing kids for the return to school, and relishing the comfort of front porch gatherings with loved ones. While we soak in the fading heat that ushers in fall, another group is also making the most of these late summer days: pests.

The vibrant blooms of gardens, the overripe bounty of fruits scattered across yards, and even the unsealed lids of garbage bins all act as magnets for these unwanted guests. With winter on the horizon, they’re seeking a comfortable haven, and your home is on their radar.

Most Common Late Summer Pests

While some might assume that pests retreat as the temperatures drop, it’s quite the opposite for many kinds of pests in Georgia. Late summer months, specifically August and September, witness a surge in the activity of certain pests that can leave residents and homeowners facing unique challenges. 

  • Mosquitoes: These pests thrive in summer, and by late summer their swarms can be quite massive. Georgia’s humid and rainy summers can produce hidden pockets of standing or stagnant water – which is where these pests breed – in many places on your property.
  • Flies: House flies and fruit flies thrive in the humid warmth of late summer. Garden blooms, fallen fruit left in yards, food left out or uncovered, and unsealed garbage bins will invite these pests onto your property, and you can easily find your home overrun with them.
  • Ants: In late summer ants are typically busy foraging for the queen, and if they find your home to be a food resource, you can have a hard time keeping them out without professional assistance as they are well known for leaving pheromone trails that they’ll come back to relentlessly.
  • Bees, Wasps & Hornets: Most pests have a sweet tooth, most notoriously of which are these stinging pests. Fruit-bearing trees on your property, white flowers more so than others, and sweet foods in unsealed garbage bins will attract them to you. By late summer, their nests have been established and their numbers have grown, making a potentially dangerous encounter more likely.
  • Ticks: More outdoor activity means more opportunities for picking up one of these unwanted hitchhikers. Relatives of the arachnid, ticks find their way onto us or our pets through tall grass, weeds, shrubs, and bushes. Additionally, these pests are well known to spread some pretty nasty diseases like Lyme Disease and malaria. 
  • Cockroaches: These pests are known for preferring warm and humid environments, making Georgia summers the perfect breeding time for them. With their numbers increased by late summer, you’ll have a higher chance of an unwanted infestation as they enter your home in search of food sources. If you see one, you can guarantee that there are many more.
  • Spiders: Late summer is perfect for these pests to be active inside your home as they seek out the milder indoor temperatures and the higher likelihood of food sources like flies or ants. Giant house spiders are one of two species known to be most active in summer, so if you notice a large amount of spiders in your home, you may have an infestation issue.
  • Rodents: Open doors, broken screens, holes in walls or along the roof, are all easy entry points for mice and rats. Late summer has these creatures looking for a nice cozy place to nest down for winter, and your home may provide the perfect place. 
  • Snakes: With the increased activity of rodents seeking shelter, you’ll also notice they bring with them their predators. Georgia has a few native snakes that love the warmth and moisture of our humid summers, some of which are venomous, so be sure to have snake prevention measures in place. 

Active Pest Control, Your Partners in Pest Management and Prevention

Whether you’re in immediate need, or seeking year-round prevention, the professionals at Active Pest Control are here to help. With over 45 years of experience serving the state of Georgia, our team is dedicated to providing expert pest protection. If you’ve found yourself battling a pest infestation, or would like to establish a prevention plan, don’t hesitate to contact us today!