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West Nile Virus: what is it and how can you avoid it?

West Nile Virus: what is it and how can you avoid it?

Learn what West Nile virus is, how it spreads from mosquitoes, and the simple, effective steps you can take to protect yourself and your family.
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DEET's Safety and Effectiveness in Insect Repellents Examined Amid Rising Tick-Borne Diseases

DEET's Safety and Effectiveness in Insect Repellents Examined Amid Rising Tick-Borne Diseases

DEET, a common ingredient in insect repellents, is under examination for its safety and effectiveness. Despite its oily texture and potential to stain clothes, DEET is highly effective due to its ability to repel insects both on contact and from a distance. Concerns about DEET's safety have been raised, but studies have shown it poses less of a threat to humans than previously thought. The rise of tick-borne diseases like alpha-gal syndrome and West Nile virus underscores the importance of effective repellents. Alternatives to DEET, such as botanical repellents, often lack safety testing and effectiveness.
USA Today USA Today
West Nile virus risk grows when mosquitoes thrive in backyards

West Nile virus risk grows when mosquitoes thrive in backyards

Clear standing water, repair screens and use repellent to make your backyard less welcoming to mosquitoes as West Nile increases in California.
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Mosquito Resistance to Insecticides Raises Concerns in North Carolina

Mosquito Resistance to Insecticides Raises Concerns in North Carolina

Researchers at North Carolina State University have identified that tiger mosquitoes in Wake County are developing resistance to pyrethroids, a common insecticide used in mosquito control programs. This resistance complicates efforts to manage mosquito populations, which are crucial for preventing diseases like West Nile virus. State health officials are monitoring West Nile virus cases reported in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg area. The resistance issue highlights the need for new tools to rapidly reduce mosquito populations and protect public health.
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American Company Releases 600,000 Mosquitoes to Combat Dengue in Virginia

American Company Releases 600,000 Mosquitoes to Combat Dengue in Virginia

An American company, Bee Safe Mosquito Control, has initiated a project to release 600,000 male mosquitoes in the Washington D.C. area to combat the spread of dengue. These mosquitoes are infected with the Wolbachia bacterium, which prevents the eggs from hatching when they mate with wild females. This method aims to reduce the population of Aedes albopictus, a mosquito species known for spreading diseases like dengue. The initiative is a response to the first locally contracted case of dengue in northern Virginia, highlighting the growing concern over mosquito-borne diseases in the U.S.
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Kerala Health Authorities Report Surge in Chikungunya Cases Amid Monsoon

Kerala Health Authorities Report Surge in Chikungunya Cases Amid Monsoon

Kerala is experiencing a significant increase in chikungunya cases, with 105 confirmed and 62 probable cases reported as of August 4, 2026. The majority of these cases are concentrated in Thiruvananthapuram, prompting health authorities to intensify mosquito control efforts. The monsoon season has created favorable conditions for the breeding of Aedes mosquitoes, which are responsible for transmitting chikungunya and dengue. Health officials are focusing on surveillance, mosquito control, and public awareness to combat the spread of the virus. Chikungunya is characterized by sudden fever and severe joint pain, with symptoms often persisting for weeks or months. There is no specific antiviral treatment, and management focuses on symptom relief and hydration.
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City of McKinney Reschedules Mosquito Spraying Due to West Nile Virus Concerns

City of McKinney Reschedules Mosquito Spraying Due to West Nile Virus Concerns

The City of McKinney has postponed its mosquito spraying operations, initially scheduled for August 6 and 7, to August 11 and 12. This decision follows the detection of West Nile Virus in local mosquito pools. The spraying will occur between 10:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m., targeting a one-mile radius around two specific locations: 10302 JFK Boulevard on August 11 and 2800 Barnsley on August 12. Residents in these areas are advised to stay indoors and bring pets inside during the spraying. The city will post signs at major intersections and provide maps and information on its website to keep the public informed.
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Study Highlights Hydrometeorological Factors Influencing Mosquito Abundance in Oklahoma

Study Highlights Hydrometeorological Factors Influencing Mosquito Abundance in Oklahoma

A recent study conducted in Norman, Oklahoma, has examined the impact of hydrometeorological variables on mosquito abundance. Researchers used data from CO2-baited traps and meteorological observations to analyze the responses of different mosquito species to environmental conditions. The study found that factors such as soil moisture, drought indices, and solar radiation significantly influence mosquito populations. The findings suggest that incorporating these variables can improve ecological understanding and inform mosquito control strategies in urban areas.
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Ebola Outbreak in DRC Claims Over 300 Children's Lives, UNICEF Reports

Ebola Outbreak in DRC Claims Over 300 Children's Lives, UNICEF Reports

The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has resulted in the deaths of over 300 children, according to UNICEF. Children represent nearly a quarter of confirmed cases and a third of all deaths. The outbreak, which has surpassed 4,000 cases with 1,850 deaths, is severely impacting healthcare access, with a 40% drop in service usage in affected areas. The World Health Organization (WHO) is advocating for a community-led response to improve early detection and care access. Efforts include deploying 13,000 community workers to educate the public on prevention and early detection.
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Virginia Confirms First Case of Locally Acquired Dengue Virus

Virginia Confirms First Case of Locally Acquired Dengue Virus

The Virginia Department of Health has confirmed the first case of locally acquired dengue virus in the state. The case was identified in northern Virginia, and health officials are investigating the circumstances. Dengue is transmitted through mosquito bites, and while the risk of further spread is low, residents are advised to take precautions. Symptoms of dengue can range from mild to severe, with severe cases potentially leading to high fever and abnormal bleeding. The virus is not typically transmitted from person to person.
Westchester County Journal News Westchester County Journal News
The deadliest animal in New York isn’t what you think

The deadliest animal in New York isn’t what you think

A new report ranking the most dangerous animals in every state has a surprising pick for New York.
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Senator King Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Combat Mosquito-Borne Diseases

Senator King Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Combat Mosquito-Borne Diseases

U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) has introduced the Strengthening Mosquito Abatement for Safety and Health (SMASH) 2.0 Act, a bipartisan bill aimed at enhancing the fight against mosquito-borne diseases. The legislation seeks to reauthorize funding for federal mosquito control and public health response efforts, improve preparedness, and expand training for public health staff. The bill is co-sponsored by Senators Roger Wicker (R-MS), Tina Smith (D-MN), and Rick Scott (R-FL). The SMASH 2.0 Act builds on previous efforts to control vector-borne diseases, which pose significant public health risks across the United States.