5 Mosquito Myths Debunked

Mosquitoes have been around for millenia. There are some 3,000 species of mosquitoes in the world, and at least 176 of those can be found in the U.S.

When something is a part of the common human experience for so long, it tends to develop a cloud of myths about it.

We did the research and consulted with mosquito experts to find the truth about some of these myths.

Read on to learn the truth about some popular misconceptions that could be keeping you from enjoying your outdoor space to the fullest.

Myth 1: All Mosquitos Carry Disease.

Not all mosquitoes carry diseases. Only certain species can transmit specific diseases, and they must first bite an infected host. However, all mosquitoes are still considered nuisances due to their irritating bites.

Myth 2: You're Very Likely to Die from a Mosquito-Borne Disease in the U.S.

Zika. West Nile virus. Dengue fever. If you're paying attention, it's easy to think these diseases are rampant all around you. But are they?

In the U.S., you're unlikely to die from a mosquito-borne disease. It's not among the top 10 causes of death globally. You're more likely to die from heart disease, stroke or a car accident than from a mosquito-borne illness.

Myth 3: If You Let a Mosquito Finish Biting You and Fly Away, You Won't Have Pain or Itch from the Bite.

Letting a mosquito finish biting you doesn't prevent pain or itching. It's best to deter them quickly. The sooner you can remove a mosquito, the better chance you have of minimizing the bite's effects.

Myth 4. Harsh Synthetic Chemicals are Way Better at Repelling and Managing Mosquitos than Botanicals are.

Botanical repellents can be as effective as synthetic chemicals. MosquitoNix uses pyrethrin from chrysanthemums and eco-friendly options like peppermint and clove oils. These natural solutions are less likely to leave harmful residues in the environment.

Botanicals are extracts and formulations taken directly from plants. In addition to botanical solutions, MosquitoNix offers several eco-friendly options like peppermint oil and clove oil used in MosquitoNix® Green products.

Myth 5: Chemical Companies and Insect Repellent Services Want to Completely Eliminate All Species of Mosquitos.

Pest management companies don't aim to eliminate all mosquito species. They focus on management, recognizing the importance of biodiversity. Effective control involves a combination of approaches, including community-wide efforts to eliminate breeding sites.

Understanding these myths can help you better protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites and potential health risks. With the right professional advice and the smart use of all-natural and botanical options, we can learn to co-exist with our flying, biting neighbors and reclaim our outdoor spaces at the same time.