Two Types Of Mosquitoes You Need To Stay Far Away From in Illinois

Ah, mosquitoes, the tiny vampires of the insect world.  With summer coming in hot and heavy in Illinois, we know the skeeters will be out for blood.

Just today, I was at Sinnissippi bike path just minding my business, enjoying this great weather we've been having, and I felt it.  I got bitten by a mosquito.

Related: Farmer’s Almanac: Here’s What Illinois’ Summer Will Be Like 

Mosquito season usually starts in spring when temperatures reach above 50 degrees and they stick around during summer and fall.  I will be stocking up on bug spray because I can't afford to keep getting attacked!!!

Well, I'm going to steer clear of these two types of mosquitoes making their way to Illinois because the diseases they can spread are not fun...

Two Types Of Mosquitoes You Need To Stay Far Away From in Illinois

One common vector mosquito in Illinois is the Culex, or house mosquito:

"The Culex mosquito, which bites from dusk to dawn, is a vector of St. Louis encephalitis and West Nile virus; it becomes infected by feeding on birds that carry these viruses. St. Louis encephalitis and West Nile virus affect mainly older adults." [dph]

No matter what kind of mosquito attaches itself to me, I'm swatting at it.  I don't play when it comes to any type of blood-suckin' insects.

The other common vector mosquito is the tree-hole mosquito:

"The tree-hole mosquito, which bites during the day, is the main vector of California (LaCrosse) encephalitis in Illinois. The virus infects chipmunks, squirrels and other small woodland animals; in humans, it affects mainly children" [dph]

 

Related: Harmful Bugs Found In Illinois That You Have Permission To Smoosh

Now you know what to look for... if you can even see mosquitoes before they strike, here's what you can do to reduce the population of mosquitoes around your home:

• Remove water from any areas from around your home that they can breed
• If you have a pool, drain it or cover the water! 
• Keep weeds and tall grass cut so mosquitoes can't get shade
• Get a fly swatter or spray to instantly kill them

One of my biggest tips: don't go to a forest or wooded area after a rainstorm in the summer.  I learned from experience, never again! I was eaten ALIVE!