Mosquito-borne Diseases

Mosquitos can carry diseases and may transmit those diseases through a bite (while feeding). Most mosquito bites do not result in infection. However, preventing mosquito bites [external link] is the best way to decrease your chance of infection.

Several mosquito-borne viruses circulate in Georgia yearly and can cause disease in humans and other animals. The most reported mosquito-borne virus in Georgia is West Nile virus. However, Eastern Equine encephalitis, La Crosse encephalitis, and Saint Louis encephalitis virus have also been previously detected in Georgia. Mosquito-borne viruses are most active in late spring through early fall in Georgia, although this can vary based on local weather.

Additionally, there are illnesses that can be transmitted by mosquitos while traveling abroad (sometimes referred to as "exotic diseases"). These diseases include Chikungunya, Dengue, Malaria, Yellow Fever, and Zika among others. Travelers should inform themselves about diseases (including vectorborne) that may circulate in their travel destinations by reviewing information on the CDC's Travelers' Health Page [external link].

Mosquito-borne Disease Related Links

Georgia Department of Public Health, Environmental Health

Provides primary prevention through a combination of surveillance, education, enforcement, and assessment programs designed to identify, prevent and abate the environmental conditions that adversely impact human health.
CDC ArboNET Disease Maps

National and State arboviral disease maps from 2003 to present.
Georgia Mosquito Control Association

Providing Support for the Mosquito Control Profession in Georgia
EPA Mosquito Control Page

Contact DPH Epidemiology

For questions about disease surveillance contact public health.

Epidemiology Main Line: (404) 657-2588

Fax: (404) 657-2608

24/7 Reporting Line: 1-866-PUB-HLTH (+1 866-782-4584)

Last updated: 12/07/2022