Mosquitoe Bite

In Arizona, there are more than 40 species of mosquitoes. They require water in order to breed, so you’ll find them near water sources of any kind. From bird baths and upturned toys to ponds and marshes in your backyard, mosquitoes are a constant summer pest. They sting humans to feast off their blood, leaving behind itchy, red welts.

They carry potentially fatal diseases such as West Nile virus, dengue fever, and eastern equine encephalitis. Elsewhere around the world, they are known to carry diseases such as yellow fever and malaria.

You can prevent mosquito populations by removing standing water on your property, such as flowerpots, grill covers, baby pools, toys, and patio furniture.

Flea Bites

These pests are parasites that, like mosquitoes, feed on the blood of humans and animals. They get into your home on the fur of pets, rodents, and even wild animals such as raccoons and opossums. Fleas bite their hosts, leaving behind red, itchy bumps. Pets can suffer allergy dermatitis thanks to the saliva of the fleas.

Fleas spread disease, such as bubonic plague (although rare) as well as bacterial diseases like murine typhus. They also serve as hosts for tapeworms. Be sure to bathe and groom your pet regularly, bring them to the vet every year and give them a flea treatment in summer.

Tick Bite

Ticks attach themselves to their host to suck their blood. They are actually not insects but arachnids. There are many tick species present in Arizona, the most common of which is the brown dog tick. Tick season here is April through October, so it’s important to be diligent during these months especially.

Ticks prefer tall grasses, woods and other areas of vegetation. Ticks will burrow into the skin of humans and animals, leaving behind a tell-tale “bull's-eye” rash, an indication of Lyme disease. After spending time outdoors, inspect your body and that of kids and pets carefully.