Mosquitoes are some of the most annoying and dangerous creatures found in our surroundings, because not only do they bother about how painful their bite can be, but there are also some species capable of seriously compromising our health. Such is the case of the well-known tiger mosquito, one of the most feared in the world because of the compromise that its picketing must result, by transmitting a series of serious diseases, such as yellow fever and dengue fever.
Next, we will talk about the tiger mosquito and everything related to this insect species: what it is, what are its characteristics, how to avoid its bite and what are the possible treatments against the attack of this bichillo, all this and much more in A complete guide on the fearful tiger mosquito.
WHAT IS THE TIGER MOSQUITO AND WHAT ARE ITS CHARACTERISTICS?
As mentioned above, the tiger mosquito corresponds to a particular species of mosquito, listed as one of the 100 most dangerous invasive specimens in the world, according to the Invasive Species Specialist Group of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature.
This little bug finds its origins in the south of the Asian continent and is mainly characterized by the following:
- It measures between 4mm and 11mm approximately.
- Its body is black with white stripes, which become more pronounced in the region of the thorax.
- It has 6 thin and long legs, in addition to an elongated and thin trunk that it uses to suck the blood of its victims.
- It is especially active during the day and is often hidden in shady places. During the nights, it usually enters the homes in search of a victim to feed on.
- The eggs and larvae of the tiger mosquito are grouped in small quantities in small puddles or stagnant waters, never moving and located close to humans.
- Fly no more than 400 meters from the place where they lay their eggs.
Basically, these are the main characteristics that help determine if you are in the presence of this pest species, and take them into consideration is important to be able to take the necessary measures to avoid at all costs the proliferation of this insect and the transmission of diseases product of his sting.
Where we found tiger mosquito?
As to where this species of mosquito can be found, its presence today is notorious in different parts of the world, because, although it is an invasive species native to South Asia, it has spread to America, Africa and Europe, as well as for the Pacific region.
Currently, the tiger mosquito is considered a progressive threat to the health of human beings, given its accelerated reproduction and expansion. The appearance of this bichillo can occur through the transport of people or goods in which there are remains of stagnant water, such as used rubbers or decorative plants, such as the popular “lucky bamboo”. Regarding their eggs, these have special resistance to drying, so they can travel on used tires, even without water traces, to hatch once in contact with water.
To develop and proliferate, the tiger mosquito prefers to settle in places with vegetation, as is the case of gardens, especially if there is the presence of standing water nearby and if there are animals or people who can serve as a source of food. Thus, it is common to see in the sources, puddles, pots and containers with water held for several days, among other places with similar conditions.
symptoms of tiger mosquito bite
As you know, the tiger mosquito is mainly known for its annoying and dangerous sting, which is often confused with that of any ordinary mosquito, presenting symptoms such as:
- Inflammation of the skin
- Redness of the affected area
- Burning and itching in the area of the bite.
All these reactions arise as a response of the immune system to contact with the saliva of this peculiar insect, which, if a carrier of a disease, can lead the patient to manifest other additional symptoms, which may vary according to the transmitted pathology.
WHAT DISEASES CAN THE TIGER MOSQUITO TRANSMIT?
In relation to the diseases that can be transmitted as a result of a tiger mosquito bite, in endemic areas, this species of bug is the main propagator of diseases such as dengue in the Central American, South American and Pacific region, as well as of the famous yellow fever and West Nile virus.
It should be noted that, during the summer of 2007, there was an epidemiological outbreak of chikinguña epidemic arthritis in the region of Ravenna, Italy, which was caused by the CHIKV virus, spread by the tiger mosquito picket. Also, in 2010, it was detected that these insects penetrated into the north of Greece, spreading the aforementioned West Nile virus, causing the death of a large number of people.
Finally, in 2014, a chikinguña epidemic arthritis virus was evidenced in the American continent, mainly in countries such as Venezuela and the Dominican Republic, in which a considerable number of deaths could be appreciated.
HOW TO AVOID THE TIGER MOSQUITO BITE?
In view of the fact that the bite of the tiger mosquito can result in serious consequences, it is indispensable to apply certain measures that prevent the appearance of this annoying bichillo and, consequently, its attack. Therefore, below we have left a list of some of the most effective methods or mechanisms to keep these insects away and prevent them from causing havoc:
- You put mosquito nets in the windows.
- Use electrical insecticides to prevent the passage of these pests, ultrasounds for insects or common insecticides.
- Use protective clothing when going outside, such as long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks, spraying a little insecticide on the clothes as a precaution.
- Move away from stagnant water, removing any container in the home or surroundings that may contain them and that can serve as a nest for the eggs of this insect.
- Consider a professional fumigation, especially during the summer season, in which the bites of this insect tend to increase.
Treatment of tiger mosquito sting
In case of being victim of a tiger mosquito bite, it is convenient to know the different treatments that can be applied, among which are:
- Antihistamines.
- Analgesics.
- Corticosteroids.
Only the application of a single method of treatment is required in certain cases, which must always be prescribed by a doctor, once the corresponding diagnosis has been carried out.
In the case of antihistamines, these slow down the allergic outbreak triggered by the bite, blocking the effects of histamine on the body and, therefore, the allergic reaction to mosquito saliva. Its administration can be recommended both orally and through injections.
On the other hand, corticosteroids have the function of relieving the itching and reducing the time of action of the symptoms produced by the bite. Its use is only advised in cases where more severe or pronounced reactions are manifested than normal.
Finally, oral analgesics can be recommended if the patient manifests uninterrupted pain, although usually it is not usually necessary, since it is usually enough to take an antihistamine to reduce itching and other discomforts.
In any case, you should always consult a doctor or specialist before opting for one or another treatment, as some cases are usually more serious than others and, therefore, require more care and attention.
Home remedies for the tiger mosquito bite
In addition to the alternatives previously exposed to treat tiger mosquito bites, there are some home remedies that can be especially useful to solve the problem and relieve symptoms.
- Alcohol: its disinfectant action can calm the itch and prevent wounds from becoming infected. Its application should be carried out directly on the affected area, gently placing a cotton soaked with alcohol.
- Ice: this alternative is practical and very effective to calm the pain and discomfort derived from the tiger mosquito bite, since it tends to numb the skin and reduce the heat in the affected area, which will retard the reaction to the bite. You can apply ice on the area for a few minutes and not directly, since you could lead to skin burns.
- Aloe vera: a prodigy plant for the treatment of various ailments, especially for insect bites, has an analgesic effect that helps to alleviate discomfort in the skin. To use it, you just have to take a penny of aloe and extract the gel inside, to apply it directly on the wound and letting it act for as long as possible.
Well, now that you know everything about the popular tiger mosquito and how dangerous it can be, we hope that you put into practice the necessary measures to keep you away from your presence, in order to preserve your good health.
