Seven Diseases Caused by Mosquitoes: A Comprehensive Guide

• Written by Mudit Handa

  Reviewed by Akhil Pillai

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Vector-borne diseases, such as Malaria, continue to be a significant public health issue, particularly in rural and tribal regions of the country. Transmission is highest during and after the monsoon season. States such as Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and the northeastern states report numerous cases annually. Similarly, Dengue has an increased incidence in urban and semi-urban areas. Outbreaks occur frequently, especially post-monsoon. Delhi, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka have the highest reported cases.

Rapid urbanisation without proper planning and sanitation leads to outbreaks of mosquito-borne diseases. Zika often occurs alongside dengue. Southern and western states report a notable number of cases. This article will guide through seven dreadful diseases spread by mosquitoes.

7 Dreadful Diseases Spread by Mosquitoes

Below is a list of diseases caused by mosquitoes and their associated symptoms.

1. Malaria

Malaria is caused by parasites transmitted through the bites of infected Anopheles mosquitoes. Common symptoms include fever, chills, and flu-like illness.

• Fever with intense shivering,
• Chills or sweats,
• Headache,
• Muscle pain,
• Nausea and vomiting, and
• Fatigue

2. Dengue Fever

Aedes mosquitoes transmit the dengue virus. They generally breed in clean water, so it is necessary to change the water stored in tanks and ponds. Common symptoms of dengue include high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, and a rash.

• High fever,
• Severe headache,
• Pain behind the eyes,
• Persistent joint and muscle pain,
• Muscle fatigue,
• Nausea and vomiting, and
• Skin rash.

3. Zika Virus

Zika virus is another disease borne by the Aedes mosquitoes. It spreads primarily through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes. Symptoms may include fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis.

• Persistent fever,
• Rashes,
• Headache
• Joint and muscle pain, and
• Conjunctivitis or eye flu.

4. Chikungunya

This disease is spread by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. A patient suffering from this disease may face persistent fever, joint pain, headache, and muscle pain.

• Fever,
• Often severe joint pain,
• headache,
• Muscle pain at joints with swelling, and
• Rashes

5. Yellow Fever

Yellow fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic disease transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. It can cause serious complications. Symptoms can range from fever, headache, and muscle pain to more severe liver disease with jaundice and blood in stools. Although all these symptoms may improve within five days, they may worsen if not treated promptly. According to a recent report by the World Mosquito Program, over 30,000 people die annually from this disease globally.

Know in detail about blood in the stools.

6. West Nile Virus

West Nile Virus, a single-stranded RNA virus of the Flavivirus genus, is found in the blood of some infected birds. The virus is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected Culex mosquitoes. These mosquitoes become infected when they suck the blood of the infected birds, which are the primary hosts of the virus. Humans, horses, and other mammals get infected by the bite of the carrier mosquito.Many infected individuals are asymptomatic, but some develop the following symptoms:

• Fever
• Headache
• Fatigue, and
• Body aches.

7. Lymphatic Filariasis

It is caused by parasitic worms and transmitted by various mosquitoes, including Culex, Anopheles, and Aedes. Besides, it can also spread due to the harmful bite of a parasite, filaria, from which it gets its name. It can lead to swelling and disability, particularly in the limbs.

Factors Responsible for Mosquito-borne Diseases

Several factors contribute to the spread of mosquito-borne diseases. These are listed below:

• Poor Public Hygiene: A lack of public awareness and hygiene is a significant factor in the transmission of mosquito-borne diseases. Open drains and stagnant water provide active breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
• Climate: The monsoon season and warm temperatures increase mosquito breeding, leading to higher disease transmission.
• Urbanisation: Rapid urbanisation, poor sanitation, and waterlogging contribute to mosquito breeding in urban areas.
• Population Density: High population density facilitates the spread of diseases.
• Lack of Public Health Measures: Ineffective vector control measures, surveillance, and healthcare access significantly impacts disease intensity.

Hence, proper sanitation and hygiene measures must be implemented at home and in public places to check the spread of mosquito-related diseases.

Be Informed about Diseases Transmitted by Mosquitoes

It is important to note that specific data and trends can vary annually. For the most up-to-date information, readers should always refer to the latest reports from health authorities such as the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Furthermore, it is essential to plan your finances in advance for health emergencies. The best way to do so is to secure adequate health coverage against critical illnesses.

Shield Your Family Against a Health Emergency with Advanced Coverage

As shown above, it is evident that a small insect bite can lead to symptoms of a serious illness. A minor ailment can sometimes consume a significant portion of one's savings. Therefore, it is always wise to be financially prepared by obtaining adequate health coverage. It is essential to ensure that you and your family are fully covered for all types of critical illnesses, allowing you to live a life free from the fear of unexpected medical expenses.

Disclaimer: It is essential to verify the policy details and coverage with the official policy documents. Also, kindly consult a professional medical expert to verify the details of health concerns.