Summer in Maryland means crab feasts, weekends at the Bay, and, unfortunately, mosquito season.
If you’ve ever stepped outside in July and been met with a swarm of buzzing biters, you know how irritating mosquitoes in Maryland can be.
But while itchy bites are bad enough, these pests pose a far more serious threat than mere discomfort.
Mosquitoes are among the deadliest animals on Earth, and while Maryland isn’t exactly a malaria hot zone, the risks they pose shouldn’t be underestimated.
From West Nile virus to heartworm in pets, these tiny pests can carry a heavy cost if you’re not careful.
So, how dangerous are mosquitoes in Maryland, and should you be worried about mosquito bites?
We’re breaking down what you need to know about health risks, mosquito-borne diseases, prevention tips that actually work, and when to contact professional mosquito control.
When Is Mosquito Season in Maryland?
Maryland’s subtropical climate and abundance of rivers, lakes, and the nearby bay create the perfect environment for mosquitoes to breed and establish a habitat.
Generally, mosquito activity in Maryland typically begins in late spring (April/May) and peaks during the hot, humid summer months, especially June through September.
The season can extend into October depending on weather conditions.
Most property owners will notice mosquitoes after heavy rains or when leaving standing water lying around. Properties with clogged gutters, birdbaths, poorly drained yards, or dense shrubbery are particularly at risk for a mosquito infestation.
Common Mosquito Species in Maryland
You may be surprised to learn that there is more than one type of mosquito in Maryland–there are over 50 species in fact.
The most common ones that have been identified and that carry diseases include:
- Culex pipiens: Also known as the northern house mosquito, they are the primary vector of West Nile virus.
- Aedes albopictus: Also called the Asian tiger mosquito, this aggressive day-biter is capable of transmitting diseases like Zika and dengue (though rare in Maryland).
- Anopheles quadrimaculatus: A native species that can carry malaria, though the disease has been eradicated in the U.S. for decades.
Not all mosquitoes carry disease, but those that do can pose serious health risks to humans and pets alike. Let’s explore what diseases and symptoms you should be on the lookout for.
Mosquito-Borne Diseases Found in Maryland
While Maryland is not a high-risk area for tropical mosquito diseases like malaria or dengue fever, there are still serious health concerns to consider if a mosquito has recently bitten you:
1. West Nile Virus (WNV)
This is the most common mosquito-borne illness in Maryland, and while many infected people show no symptoms, some develop severe neurological complications. In rare cases, West Nile can lead to encephalitis, meningitis, or even death.
Maryland reports dozens of cases of WNV each year, particularly in areas around Baltimore, Prince George’s County, and Montgomery County. In 2018, the state reported 45 confirmed cases, including several fatalities.
2. Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)
Though rare in Maryland, EEE is a highly dangerous mosquito-borne virus with a high mortality rate. It affects both humans and horses and is often found in swampy or coastal regions. Maryland’s Eastern Shore occasionally sees isolated cases.
3. Zika Virus
Zika is transmitted primarily by Aedes mosquitoes. While Maryland has not reported locally transmitted cases, travelers returning from affected regions can introduce the virus. Pregnant women are especially vulnerable, as Zika can cause birth defects like microcephaly.
4. Heartworm in Pets
Mosquitoes also pose a threat to pets, especially dogs. Heartworm disease is transmitted through mosquito bites and can be fatal if left untreated. Even indoor pets are at risk in mosquito-heavy areas.
Are Mosquitoes in Maryland Dangerous to Children and the Elderly?
While healthy adults often recover from mosquito-borne illnesses without complications, children, seniors, and those with weakened immune systems face greater risks.
Older adults are more likely to develop severe neurological conditions from West Nile virus, while young children can have intense allergic reactions to bites.
Mosquitoes also increase the risk of secondary infections from scratching, which can lead to cellulitis or other bacterial infections, especially in kids.
Symptoms to Watch For After a Mosquito Bite
Most mosquito bites are harmless and only result in minor itching or swelling. But some symptoms may indicate something more serious. Seek medical attention if you or a loved one experiences the following symptoms after a mosquito bite:
- Fever
- Headache
- Stiff neck
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
- Sensitivity to light
- Seizures
- Muscle weakness or tremors
- Fatigue that lasts several days
These may be early signs of West Nile virus or encephalitis and should never be ignored.
How to Prevent Mosquito Bites in Maryland
Preventing mosquito bites is the best way to protect yourself and your family from mosquito-borne illnesses in Maryland.
Start by eliminating any sources of standing water where mosquitoes can breed. Even small amounts of stagnant water can produce hundreds of mosquitoes in a matter of days.
At the same time, using personal protection like repellents and wearing the right clothing can help minimize your risk when outdoors, especially during early morning or evening hours when mosquitoes are most active.
To keep mosquitoes away from your home and yard, try the following:
- Empty or clean out clogged gutters, birdbaths, flowerpot trays, kiddie pools, wheelbarrows, tires, and pet bowls
- Apply EPA-approved repellents with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus
- Use screens on windows and doors, and add outdoor fans to deter mosquitoes
- Wear long sleeves, pants, and socks when in wooded or high-risk areas
- Consider professional mosquito control services for barrier sprays and seasonal treatment plans
When to Call in Pest Control for Mosquitoes
If prevention is not enough to keep mosquitoes from buzzing around your backyard, you’ll have to call in the big guns. Exterminators like Pest Czar use a safe yard spray that deters mosquitoes and other pests from breeding or crossing onto your property.
For more information about protecting your home against mosquitoes, contact Pest Czar for a free quote today.
FAQs
Are mosquitoes in Maryland dangerous to humans?
Yes, mosquitoes in Maryland can transmit West Nile virus, and while rare, EEE and Zika are possible threats. The elderly, children, and immunocompromised individuals are especially vulnerable to complications.
Do mosquitoes in Maryland carry malaria?
While malaria was once common in Maryland, it has been eradicated in the U.S. for decades. However, native mosquito species can carry the parasite, so health officials monitor for imported cases closely.
Can I treat my yard for mosquitoes myself?
DIY sprays and repellents offer short-term relief, but they rarely target breeding grounds effectively. Professional mosquito control services provide longer-lasting protection by addressing the root of the problem.