Source(s):
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Andrew Spelman, Harvard University School of Public Health
- The University of Georgia Department of Entomology
Asian tiger mosquito populations could be at record levels this year in Georgia according to leading mosquito experts.
Increased humidity and moisture caused by frequent afternoon thunderstorms coupled with August heat make conditions perfect for outbreaks of mosquitoes, including the Asia tiger mosquito.
Test your mosquito IQ by answering the following questions.
- Mosquitoes only come out at night?
- Mosquitoes are worse now than they were 30 years ago?
- Some people never get bitten by mosquitoes, having a natural immunity to them?
- The life span of a mosquito is only a few days?
- Mosquito eggs can live for 20 years?
Answers
- FALSE. The Asian tiger mosquito, which appeared in Georgia in the mid-90s, is a dreaded day biter.
- FALSE. Mosquitoes have long been a threat to humanity, spreading deadly diseases such as yellow fever, malaria and encephalitis.
- FALSE. While it is true that mosquitoes prefer some people to others, and some are even attracted to their victims by the smell of their feet, it is not likely that some people are fortunate enough to go through life unbitten by mosquitoes.
- TRUE. Dehydration is the typical cause of death of mosquitoes. Because they are so small, mosquitoes can quickly dehydrate or dry out. Increased humidity helps them live longer.
- TRUE. Mosquitoes have been known to lay eggs in the desert that survive for years, until some water enters the environment and allows them to hatch.
Center Publication Number: 99
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