More Than Just an Annoyance
For most Florida residents, mosquitoes are an everyday nuisance. But these small insects carry diseases that pose real health risks, and the Tampa Bay area's warm, humid climate makes it one of the most active mosquito regions in the United States. Florida is home to over 80 species of mosquitoes, and several of them are capable of transmitting serious illnesses to humans.
At Zimmer Medical Group, we want our patients to enjoy the outdoors while understanding how to minimize their exposure to mosquito-borne disease.
Mosquito-Borne Diseases in Florida
West Nile Virus
West Nile virus is the most common mosquito-borne illness in the continental United States. Most infected people (about 80 percent) show no symptoms. Roughly 20 percent develop West Nile fever with symptoms including headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash. In rare cases (less than 1 percent), the virus can cause severe neurological illness including encephalitis or meningitis.
Dengue Fever
Dengue has re-emerged in Florida in recent years, with locally acquired cases reported in several counties. Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, and rash. Severe dengue can cause hemorrhagic fever and requires immediate medical attention.
Zika Virus
While Zika transmission has decreased significantly since the 2016 outbreak, the mosquitoes that carry it remain in Florida. Zika is particularly dangerous for pregnant women, as it can cause severe birth defects. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, pregnant women should take extra precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)
EEE is rare but extremely serious, with a fatality rate of approximately 30 percent in those who develop symptomatic infection. Florida typically reports the most EEE cases of any state. While human cases are uncommon, the severity of the disease makes prevention essential.
Chikungunya
Chikungunya causes fever and severe joint pain that can last for weeks or months. While most cases in Florida are travel-related, local transmission has occurred and remains possible.
When Mosquitoes Are Most Active
In the Tampa Bay area, mosquito season essentially runs year-round, with peak activity from May through October. Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk, though the Aedes mosquitoes that carry dengue and Zika bite aggressively during daylight hours as well.
Activity increases significantly after rain, as standing water provides breeding habitat. Even small amounts of water in flower pots, bird baths, gutters, and discarded containers can produce hundreds of mosquitoes.
Effective Prevention Strategies
Use EPA-Registered Insect Repellents
The Environmental Protection Agency recommends repellents containing one of the following active ingredients:
- DEET (20-30%): The gold standard, effective for several hours per application. Safe for adults and children over two months old when used as directed.
- Picaridin (20%): Comparable effectiveness to DEET without the greasy feel or odor. A popular choice for daily use.
- Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE/PMD): A plant-based option with good efficacy. Not recommended for children under three years old.
- IR3535: Another effective option available in various formulations.
Natural repellents such as citronella, lavender, and tea tree oil provide some protection but are significantly less effective and shorter-lasting than EPA-registered products.
Eliminate Standing Water Around Your Home
Mosquitoes can breed in as little as a bottle cap of water. Regularly inspect your property for:
- Clogged gutters and downspouts
- Old tires, buckets, and containers that collect rainwater
- Bird baths (change water at least weekly)
- Flower pot saucers
- Pool covers that accumulate water
- Pet water bowls (refresh daily)
- Garbage cans without tight-fitting lids
Dress Defensively
When spending extended time outdoors during peak mosquito hours:
- Wear long sleeves and long pants when practical
- Choose light-colored clothing, which is less attractive to mosquitoes
- Treat clothing with permethrin, an insecticide that repels and kills mosquitoes on contact and remains effective through several washings
Protect Your Home
- Ensure all window and door screens are intact and free of holes
- Use air conditioning when possible, as mosquitoes avoid cool environments
- Consider using mosquito nets over beds if screens are not available
When to See Your Doctor
Most mosquito bites cause only minor itching and swelling. However, seek medical attention if you develop any of the following symptoms within two weeks of mosquito exposure:
- Fever of 101 degrees Fahrenheit or higher
- Severe headache, especially with neck stiffness
- Joint or muscle pain that seems disproportionate to normal activity
- Rash
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Eye pain or pain behind the eyes
- Confusion or altered mental status
These symptoms may indicate a mosquito-borne infection that requires medical evaluation. Most mosquito-borne illnesses are diagnosed through blood tests and managed supportively, but early recognition is important, particularly for severe forms of the disease.
Special Considerations
Pregnant Women
Take extra precautions to avoid mosquito bites throughout pregnancy. Discuss Zika prevention with your healthcare provider, especially if traveling to areas with active transmission.
Older Adults
Seniors are at higher risk for severe outcomes from West Nile virus and EEE. Consistent use of repellents and limiting outdoor exposure during peak mosquito hours is especially important.
Immunocompromised Individuals
Patients with weakened immune systems should be particularly vigilant about mosquito prevention and report any fever or unusual symptoms promptly.
Concerned about a possible mosquito-borne illness? Contact Zimmer Medical Group to schedule an evaluation. Early recognition and treatment lead to the best outcomes.
