Can Mosquitoes Cause Lyme Disease?
WouterUntil recently, many scientists denied that mosquitoes could cause Lyme disease. However, recent studies have provided evidence to challenge this assumption.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the risk of contracting Lyme disease can be reduced through proper mosquito control. The American Mosquito Control Association also provides information on mosquito control and insect-borne diseases.
A rash is often the first sign of Lyme disease. A bull’s-eye rash can appear on the skin, usually after three to thirty days after a tick bite. The rash is not always itchy, but can feel warm to the touch. The rash can also appear on other areas of the body.
The rash may also appear on the knees and other joints. The rash can be quite large. It can be up to twelve inches wide. It is a common symptom of Lyme disease, but not all people who have it develop a rash.
If you experience a rash, see your doctor. Early treatment can cure your infection. Untreated Lyme disease can lead to long-term neurologic complications. Other symptoms include joint pain, heart palpitations, headaches, and dizziness.
Some studies have shown that mosquitoes can carry Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacterium that causes Lyme disease. The bacteria are present in the salivary glands of mosquitoes. They have also been found in the mosquito gut.
The tick that transmits Lyme disease is the black-legged tick, or deer tick. The lone star tick can carry the bacterium as well.
