More Mosquitos In Nevada Means You Need To Be Careful
Mosquitos in Las Vegas usually aren’t too much of a problem. But the heavy rain and insane flooding contributed to an increase of mosquito activity, which isn’t something to play with.
A mosquito bite, although seemingly harmless, can sometimes have severe consequences beyond the initial itchiness and discomfort it causes. While most mosquito bites result in mild to moderate symptoms, mosquito saliva can be equally to blame when it comes to the annoyance of being bitten, the National Journal of Medicine states.
It’s important to try and protect yourself from being attacked by mosquitos. We’ve all seen the stories about West Nile Virus or Dengue Fever (more common in Tropical Climates). So, it’s imperative that you try and prevent from being gnawed on by these pesky bugs.
According to Healthline, some natural mosquito repellents include lavender, cinnamon oil, thyme oil, and tea tree oil. Even having plants like lemon balm, peppermint, lavender, citronella and more can help prevent mosquitos infesting your backyard or area. Just be careful when planting non-native plants! Wearing long-sleeved clothing, using mosquito repellents, and ensuring proper mosquito control measures can significantly reduce the risk of mosquito bites. Although we all want to be nice and cool, if you’re going to Mt. Charleston or even to the canyons, try and protect yourself by wearing sleeves and pants. You’ll thank me later.
In some cases, mosquito bites can also lead to severe allergic reactions. An allergic reaction occurs when the immune system overreacts to substances in mosquito saliva, triggering an allergic response. Symptoms range from hives, skin rashes, and intense itching to shortness of breath, wheezing, and swelling of the face, throat, or mouth. This severe reaction, known as anaphylaxis, is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention. If left untreated, anaphylaxis can be life threatening.
These insects are known carriers of various diseases, and mosquito bites can potentially transmit these illnesses to humans. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “The most prominent mosquito borne diseases include malaria, dengue fever, Zika virus, and West Nile virus.”
So, with the ride of mosquitos coming into our area, try and be safe! No one wants those itchy blotchy bite marks, and the diseases that could potentially come with it sound horrific. So, be smart and be careful!
Grossest Critters In Nevada: Welcome Warm Temps, More Bugs
Mojave Green Rattlesnake
Extremely venomous and packs a painful bite, the Mojave Green is a snake that you don’t want to mess with. You can find this snake across the high desert or low valley areas of the Mojave. There are a few at Red Rock Canyon, but the sighting for this snake have been pretty low. If you do ever encounter this snake then be sure to stay away at least 10 feet from the snake.
Cockroaches
In Las Vegas, there are four main species of roaches: German, Oriental, American and Australian. They’re all equally as disgusting, and they thrive in the desert climate. These bugs carry pathogens and multiply quickly. However, roaches are hard to kill with natural DIY methods. So, if you have a problem at your house then it’s probably best to call a professional exterminator.
Black Widow Spiders
This is a spider that should strike a little fear in your heart if you see it hanging in your home. Although it’s poisonous, these spiders rarely bite if unprovoked.
Silverfish
These little gross bugs are usually found throughout buildings that use cardboard boxes or has a great deal of moisture. These translucent-like bugs enjoy dark, damp environments. If you see one then that usually means there are hundreds. These bugs don’t have as much of a chance to spread pathogens or germs like roaches. They do, however, have the ability to chew tiny holes through clothes, upholstery, etc. And they can trigger allergies among people.
Scorpions
When you think of desert insects, you need to think about scorpions. Due to this arachnid feeding off of insects like roaches, ants, etc. Our homes in Nevada have become perfect places where a scorpion can lie low in while waiting for its next meal. They like to hide in dark damp places like shoes. So, be sure to check your shoes if you store them in the closet or outside. They’re pretty docile creatures as long as you don’t provoke them.
Cactus Longhorn Beetles
A truly remarkable specimen, these long horn beetles are found throughout the deserts in Nevada, California and Mexico. They don’t fly, and they feed on cacti.
Wild Silk Moths
This striking moth is hauntingly beautiful. The larvae feed on horsebrush, Fremont’s Dalea, and desert almond plants. While the adults don’t feed at all. These insects are not known to cause any property damage or other types of nuances.
