World Mosquito Day: More than just a sting, 5 dangerous diseases mosquitoes spread

Causes and symptoms of dengue fever: Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. The symptoms include high fever, severe headache, retro-orbital pain, and muscle and joint pain (Image: Canva)

Mosquito-borne diseases are illnesses transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes. The mosquitoes themselves do not cause the diseases but carry pathogens such as viruses and parasites that can be transmitted during feeding. The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies these diseases as a major public health concern due to their widespread impact and severity. According to the WHO, mosquitoes are responsible for transmitting diseases like malaria, dengue fever, Zika virus, chikungunya, and yellow fever. These diseases can lead to serious health issues, including death. The mosquitoes' ability to carry and spread these pathogens is due to their role as intermediate hosts, where the pathogens develop and multiply before being transmitted to humans.

Mosquito breeding:

Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, which provides a suitable environment for their eggs to develop. Female mosquitoes lay their eggs in water sources such as ponds, buckets, or even small puddles. The eggs hatch into larvae, which feed on microorganisms in the water. After a few stages of growth, they transform into pupae, and eventually, adult mosquitoes emerge.

Here are the various dangerous diseases cause by mosquitoes:

Malaria: Malaria is caused by Plasmodium parasites transmitted through Anopheles mosquitoes. According to the WHO, malaria is a leading cause of illness and death in many tropical regions. Symptoms include fever, chills, and flu-like illness, and severe cases can lead to organ failure and death. Malaria remains a significant health challenge due to its potential for severe complications and resistance to treatment in some regions.

Dengue fever: Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. The symptoms include high fever, severe headache, retro-orbital pain, and muscle and joint pain. In severe cases, dengue can lead to dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) or dengue shock syndrome (DSS), which are potentially life-threatening. The WHO estimates that dengue affects millions of people annually, with increasing cases due to the spread of the virus.

Zika virus: The Zika virus, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, is known for causing birth defects, including microcephaly in newborns when pregnant women are infected. Symptoms of Zika include mild fever, rash, and joint pain. The WHO has recognised Zika as a significant public health concern due to its impact on fetal development and its potential for causing neurological complications in adults.

Chikungunya: Chikungunya virus is transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes and causes fever and severe joint pain. The disease can lead to long-term joint pain and arthritis, which can be debilitating and affect the quality of life.

Yellow fever: Yellow fever is also caused by a virus transmitted by Aedes and Haemagogus mosquitoes. It is marked by fever, chills, loss of appetite, and in severe cases, liver damage leading to jaundice. The disease can be fatal, and vaccination is vital for prevention. Studies suggest that yellow fever is a serious health threat and vaccination and vector control are essential for disease management.