Mosquito-Borne Illnesses and Control Efforts in Tampa

February 02nd, 2025

If you’ve lived in Tampa for even a short time, you’ve probably had your fair share of mosquito bites. It’s almost like an unwanted rite of passage here. But beyond the itching and swatting, mosquitoes bring a more serious concern—diseases that can affect you, your family, and even your pets. With Tampa’s humid weather and long mosquito season, understanding the risks and taking the right steps to protect yourself is essential. At Green Solutions Lawn Care & Pest Control, we know that no one wants to spend their evenings indoors just to avoid mosquitoes. And you shouldn’t have to. Our goal is to help Tampa families enjoy their outdoor spaces without worrying about mosquito-borne illnesses. 

The Mosquito-Borne Illnesses Every Tampa Resident Should Know

Mosquitoes in Tampa aren’t just annoying—they’re carriers of illnesses that can hit hard. You’ve probably heard of West Nile Virus, but did you know it’s one of the most common mosquito-borne diseases in the area? Many people don’t even realize they have it because symptoms can be mild, like a headache or muscle aches. But in severe cases, it can cause brain inflammation, and that’s not something you want to take lightly.

Zika Virus made headlines a few years ago, and for good reason. While the symptoms—joint pain, rash, and fever—can be uncomfortable, the bigger concern is for pregnant women. Zika can cause birth defects, making prevention absolutely critical for expecting mothers. Dengue Fever, on the other hand, feels like the worst flu you’ve ever had, with a high fever, muscle pain, and even internal bleeding in extreme cases. And then there’s Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), a rare but potentially fatal disease that can lead to severe brain swelling.

This isn’t meant to scare you but to highlight the importance of being proactive. Knowing what’s out there helps you stay ahead of the game, and that’s exactly what we aim for at Green Solutions Lawn Care & Pest Control.

Tampa’s Climate: The Perfect Mosquito Playground

Let’s be honest—Tampa’s weather is both a blessing and a curse. Sure, the warm temperatures and sunny days are fantastic, but they also create a paradise for mosquitoes. With rain showers that leave behind puddles and high humidity that mosquitoes love, it’s no wonder they thrive here almost year-round.

The worst part? Mosquito season in Tampa doesn’t really take a break. While most places get a reprieve in the cooler months, we start seeing mosquitoes as early as February, and they stick around well into late fall. Mornings and evenings become a battleground, with mosquitoes buzzing around waiting for their next meal (unfortunately, that’s us).

Living near water—whether it’s the bay, a river, or even a backyard pool—means even more mosquitoes. But that doesn’t mean you have to live with them. At Green Solutions, we get how frustrating it can be, and we’re here to make sure your yard isn’t part of the mosquito breeding cycle.

How to Protect Yourself from Mosquito Bites

Nobody wants to spend a summer evening wrapped up like a mummy just to avoid mosquitoes, but taking a few simple steps can go a long way. Light-colored clothing might not be your first choice for a barbecue, but mosquitoes are less attracted to it. Long sleeves and pants help too, especially during peak mosquito hours at dawn and dusk.

Bug spray might not be glamorous, but trust us, it’s your best friend when you’re outside. Look for repellents with DEET or Picaridin—they’re proven to work. And don’t forget about your home. Check your window screens for holes, seal up any cracks, and if you’re in a high-risk area, consider using bed nets for extra protection.

Something as simple as cleaning up your yard can also make a big difference. Empty out anything that collects water—think flowerpots, birdbaths, and old tires. Mosquitoes love standing water, and getting rid of it means fewer mosquitoes in your yard. At Green Solutions, we’re happy to help identify and eliminate these trouble spots, so you don’t have to.

Working Together: Tampa’s Community Mosquito Control Efforts

Fighting mosquitoes isn’t just an individual effort—it’s something we all need to do together. Ever noticed those trucks driving around spraying neighborhoods? That’s part of Tampa’s mosquito control program, and it helps a lot. But it’s not just about fogging. Programs that target mosquito larvae before they even become biting adults are key.

Neighbors can help too. If everyone on your block pitches in to get rid of standing water, it reduces the overall mosquito population. It’s one of those times when a little teamwork goes a long way. At Green Solutions Lawn Care & Pest Control, we work with Tampa families to make sure their homes are mosquito-free, but we also believe in supporting community efforts to keep the whole area safer.

Natural Ways to Keep Mosquitoes at Bay

If you’re not a fan of chemicals, you’re not alone. Luckily, there are natural ways to keep mosquitoes away too. Ever heard of planting citronella, lavender, or marigolds? They’re not just pretty—they actually help repel mosquitoes. Adding these to your garden is a simple way to cut down on bites.

Keeping your yard clean and dry is just as important. Make sure your gutters are clear, your pool is properly maintained, and any standing water is dealt with quickly. At Green Solutions, we use environmentally friendly treatments that are safe for kids and pets but tough on mosquitoes. Our approach focuses on long-term control, so you can enjoy your yard without worrying about chemicals or mosquitoes.

What to Do During a Mosquito Outbreak

Sometimes, no matter how careful you are, mosquito populations explode—especially after heavy rains or flooding. When that happens, it’s time to double down on protection. Pay attention to local news and community alerts—they’ll let you know if there’s an outbreak nearby. If you start feeling sick with a fever, headache, or muscle aches, don’t wait. Get checked out by a doctor to rule out any mosquito-borne illnesses.

In the meantime, increase your defenses. Wear repellent even if you’re just running out to grab the mail, and consider bringing in professional help. That’s where we come in. Green Solutions Lawn Care & Pest Control offers emergency mosquito treatments that give you fast relief when you need it most.

Why Tampa Trusts Green Solutions Lawn Care & Pest Control

So, why choose us? Because we get it. We know how frustrating it is to have your outdoor fun ruined by mosquitoes, and we’re here to help. Our team uses products that are safe for your family and pets but tough on mosquitoes. We don’t just spray and leave—we create a plan that works for your specific yard and keeps mosquitoes away for good.

Plus, we live here too. We know Tampa’s mosquito problems firsthand, and we’ve spent years perfecting our mosquito control services. When you choose Green Solutions Lawn Care & Pest Control, you’re not just hiring a company—you’re partnering with neighbors who care.

Ready to Enjoy Your Yard Again? Let Green Solutions Help!

You don’t have to let mosquitoes take over your life. Green Solutions Lawn Care & Pest Control is here to help you fight back. With our comprehensive mosquito control services, you’ll get expert care, personalized plans, and results you can see. Give us a call today to schedule your mosquito control service and take the first step toward a mosquito-free yard in Tampa.