If you live or own a business in Myrtle Beach, you already know the weather is one of the biggest perks of being here. Warm, sunny days and coastal breezes draw people from all over—and unfortunately, they also attract mosquitoes. And where there are mosquitoes, there’s a risk of mosquito-borne illnesses.
Here’s what you should know about mosquito-borne diseases in Myrtle Beach, including which ones to be aware of and how to protect yourself and your family.
Why Myrtle Beach Is a Mosquito Magnet
Mosquitoes love the heat and humidity, which makes Myrtle Beach their ideal playground for much of the year. Once temperatures stay above 50°F, mosquitoes become active, and in our area, that can be as early as March. Their numbers usually peak from June through September and start tapering off by November.
These pests thrive around standing water and shady vegetation. Think birdbaths, clogged gutters, puddles, and overgrown landscaping. That’s where they breed, rest, and wait for their next blood meal.
Common Mosquito-Borne Diseases in Myrtle Beach
Knowing which mosquito-borne illnesses are present in our area can help you take quick action if symptoms show up.
West Nile Virus (WNV)
West Nile virus is the most common mosquito-borne disease in both Myrtle Beach and the U.S. The good news? Most people who get it don’t even feel sick.
About 1 in 5 people experience mild, flu-like symptoms like fever, chills, headache, nausea, and body aches. These usually resolve on their own, though some people feel lingering fatigue for weeks or months.
More serious complications are rare but possible—about 1 in 150 infected people develop neurological symptoms such as encephalitis or meningitis. These cases can involve high fever, neck stiffness, confusion, and muscle weakness. If symptoms are severe or persistent, it’s best to seek medical care.
Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)
EEE is rare, but it's also one of the most dangerous mosquito-borne diseases. While many people infected with EEE experience no symptoms, severe cases can be life-threatening—about 1 in 3 result in death. Survivors may face long-term neurological problems.
Severe symptoms include high fever, vomiting, seizures, and drowsiness. If these symptoms occur, don’t wait—seek medical help immediately.
La Crosse Encephalitis
La Crosse Encephalitis has been reported in South Carolina, though it’s uncommon. Most people don’t feel sick or only have mild flu-like symptoms. However, children under 16 are at higher risk for severe complications, including brain inflammation.
If symptoms such as muscle stiffness, headache, disorientation, or vision problems appear, especially in children, consult a healthcare provider.
St. Louis Encephalitis
Though extremely rare, St. Louis encephalitis did have a reported case in South Carolina in 2024. Like the others, it often causes no symptoms—or only mild ones. In rare cases, it can lead to serious neurological problems.
Most people recover fully, but if you notice any concerning symptoms, especially those affecting the nervous system, seek medical advice.
How to Protect Yourself from Mosquitoes
Reading about mosquito-borne illnesses can be unsettling—but don’t panic. Most cases cause little to no symptoms, and there are plenty of ways to protect yourself.
Here are a few simple steps to reduce mosquito activity around your home or business:
- Eliminate standing water wherever possible (gutters, buckets, flowerpots, etc.)
- Keep your lawn and landscaping trimmed to reduce resting areas
- Consider professional mosquito control services to reduce mosquito populations
Get Season-Long Mosquito Protection with Harris Pest Control
If mosquitoes are ruining your time outdoors, Harris Pest Control can help. We offer seasonal mosquito control services in Myrtle Beach (and throughout our South Carolina service area) that dramatically reduce mosquito populations from March through October.
Our targeted treatments focus on breeding sites and resting areas to break the mosquito life cycle and knock down adult populations. With monthly visits, you get reliable protection all season long, so you can enjoy your yard without constantly swatting and spraying.
Request Your Free Mosquito Control Quote Today
The best way to avoid mosquito-borne illnesses is to avoid mosquito bites—and that starts with reducing mosquito activity around your home. Let Harris Pest Control help. Contact us today to request your free mosquito control quote and take back your yard.
Intelligent Choice Service Program
Plus
Harris Pest Control's ICP-Plus is a great home pest control plan for homeowners who enjoy spending time outside with their families. This residential plan includes the same protection against common household pests and wood-destroying termites as our ICP-Pest & Termite plan but also provides seasonal mosquito misting treatments!
- Year-Round Pest Control
- 100% Satisfaction Guarantee
- Covers 22+ Pests
- Exterior Perimeter Pest Treatment
- Exterior Spider De-webbing (up to 15')
- Indoor Pest Treatments (as needed or upon request)
- Termite Control with Sentricon Always Active
- Termite Service Warranty
- Fire Ant Control (within 25' of your home)
- Seasonal Mosquito Misting Treatments
Starting at:
$9900A Month
Free Inspection Or Call (843) 665-4325
Pests Covered & Additional Details
Pests Covered: American Cockroaches, Carpenter Ants, Centipedes, Crickets, Earwigs, Fire Ants (within 25' of the house), German Cockroaches, House Flies, Lady Bugs, Mice, Millipedes, Mosquitoes, Nuisance Ants, Oriental Cockroaches, Rats, Silverfish, Spider Mites, Spiders, Stored Product Pests, Termites, Wasps
- Pricing does not include initial fee
- Excludes coverage for fleas, ticks, bed bugs, and other pests not specifically listed above. Services for any of these pests are available at an additional charge.
- Looking for even greater pest protection? Check out our Complete Plan!
