Mosquito-Borne Viruses

Mosquitoes are more than a nuisance – they can transmit pathogens that can cause diseases in humans and animals. Preventing mosquito bites is the best way to reduce the risk of mosquito-borne disease. Mosquitoes can be found in many different environments and you may not always notice when you have been bitten. Mosquito activity in Florida can be year round. Try to protect yourself to avoid a mosquito-borne diseases. 

Some mosquitoes are vectors for diseases. This means they can transmit diseases from one human or animal to another. Typically, the diseases are caused by viruses or tiny parasites. For example, a mosquito that bites an infected human or animal can pick up a virus along with the blood meal. The mosquito and virus do not harm one another but the virus reproduces inside the mosquito. Later, the mosquito can pass the viruses to other humans when biting them. 

If you're planning a trip and wondering how to protect yourself and your family from vector-borne illnesses, visit the Centers for Disease Control's webpage about Preventing Mosquito Bites While Traveling.

Some diseases transmitted by mosquitoes include, but are not limited to: Zika Virus, West Nile Virus, Malaria, Dengue Fever, Chikungunya and Heartworm Disease. Learn more about these viruses below.