Story perspectives

North Carolina Fights Deadly Mosquito-Borne Illness Surge

9/19/2025

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Summary

Story summary

According to the CDC, mosquitoes are the deadliest animals in North Carolina, transmitting diseases like malaria, West Nile, and dengue, leading to over 700,000 deaths globally each year.
In 2024, North Carolina reported over 900 cases of tick- and mosquito-borne illnesses.
From 2003 to 2023, the state ranked second nationally for La Crosse virus infections.
The NCDHHS initiated the "Fight the Bite" campaign in April 2024, recommending EPA-registered repellents and protective clothing to prevent bites.
While certain plants may deter mosquitoes, experts caution that this method is unreliable.

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Story summary

According to the CDC, mosquitoes are the deadliest animals in North Carolina, transmitting diseases like malaria, West Nile, and dengue, leading to over 700,000 deaths globally each year.
In 2024, North Carolina reported over 900 cases of tick- and mosquito-borne illnesses.
From 2003 to 2023, the state ranked second nationally for La Crosse virus infections.
The NCDHHS initiated the "Fight the Bite" campaign in April 2024, recommending EPA-registered repellents and protective clothing to prevent bites.
While certain plants may deter mosquitoes, experts caution that this method is unreliable.