What You Should Know About the Growing Threat of Mosquito-Borne Diseases
Mosquitoes are often considered a nuisance with their constant buzzing and those annoying bites that leave us with red, itchy bumps. But believe it or not, this is only the lesser evil, because these organisms at less than half an inch can actually make us sick and even be deadly. In fact, they’re responsible for about 1 million deaths each year because of the diseases they spread. Scared? You should rightly be. Learn more about the growing threat of mosquitoes and the diseases they carry here.
Common Mosquito-Borne Illnesses Around the World
Mosquito-borne diseases refer to illnesses that can be transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. These diseases can be the result of a parasite or virus residing within the mosquito. Malaria is caused by the Plasmodium parasite; while dengue fever, Zika, West Nile, and chikungunya are caused by viruses.
Dengue
Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection that can be caused by any one of four different dengue serotypes, named dengue virus 1, 2, 3 and 4. It is a common disease found in tropical and subtropical regions, where in Singapore it is considered an endemic infectious disease. Dengue fever is carried and transmitted by infected Aedes mosquitoes.
Symptoms: Fever, headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle aches, rash, nausea, vomiting, and more.
Malaria
Caused by a single-celled parasite, and transmitted through the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito, malaria is a deadly disease that requires prompt treatment. While rare in Singapore, it has a high incidence rate in parts of Africa, Asia, Central and South America, and other tropical climates. Most deaths associated with malaria occur in children under 5 years old.
Symptoms: Fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, shortness of breath, vomiting, diarrhoea, and more.
Zika
Closely related to dengue, Zika is spread through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. Although it often causes mild or no symptoms, Zika is a concern because it can be transmitted from a pregnant woman to her unborn baby, potentially leading to birth defects. In symptomatic patients, Zika can be mistaken for dengue fever. It is most prevalent in tropical and subtropical areas.
Symptoms: Mild fever, rash, headache, joint and muscle aches, conjunctivitis.
West Nile Virus
West Nile fever is caused by the West Nile virus, which affects not only humans but also certain animals such as horses, and occasionally cats, dogs, cattle and sheep. It is primarily spread by mosquitoes, specifically the Culex species, which transmit the virus through their bites. Most people infected with West Nile virus do not experience symptoms, but about 1 in 150 individuals may develop severe illness, which can sometimes prove fatal. Outbreaks of West Nile virus occur in regions including Greece, Israel, Russia, Romania and the United States.
Symptoms: Flu-like including fever, headache and sore throat, disorientation, lack of appetite, muscle ache and weakness, and more.
Chikungunya
Chikungunya is a disease transmitted by mosquitoes that acquire the virus from infected humans. About three quarters of the world’s population live in areas at risk of chikungunya infection, including the Americas, Africa, Asia and more. Although chikungunya is not related to dengue and Zika viruses, it shares similarities with these diseases, such as having Aedes mosquitoes as its primary vectors and circulating in tropical and subtropical parts of the world.
Symptoms: Fever, muscle and joint aches, swelling, headache, rash, fatigue, nausea, and more.
Why Cases of Mosquito-Borne Diseases Are Rising
It seems like mosquito-borne diseases are on the rise, and that can be due to a few different but interconnected reasons.
Climate Change
Rising global temperatures and changing rainfall patterns, particularly in warmer climates, are creating ideal conditions for pests like mosquitoes. This leads to more cases of diseases like malaria and dengue, as more areas become suitable for these vectors to thrive and breed, even extending their active seasons.
Urbanisation
Urbanisation serves as a major factor, too. Some mosquito species have been observed to become anthropophilic, meaning they prefer to feed exclusively on humans. In densely populated areas, there are more potential breeding sites, like standing water in containers and other man-made structures; and the close-packed population makes it easier for mosquitoes to locate and bite their hosts.
Travel and Trade
The increasing frequency of global travel and trade can lead to the spread of mosquitoes and the diseases they carry into new areas. Travellers who are infected can introduce these diseases into regions that were previously unaffected, as long as mosquitoes are present, even if direct human-to-human transmission is unlikely.
Possible Prevention and Control Measures
Many mosquito-borne diseases can be prevented through a combination of personal protective measures and community initiatives.
Personal Protection
One of the most effective ways to guard against mosquito bites and the diseases they harbour is to enhance your personal protection. When outdoors, use insect repellents, and wear loose-fitting clothing with long sleeves and pants to minimise exposed skin. Try to avoid early mornings and evenings as those are the periods that mosquitoes are most active. Consider setting up mosquito nets and screens when indoors.
Environmental Control
Environmental control involves removing potential breeding and hiding spots for mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are attracted to dark, humid environments, so improving ventilation and lighting, alongside eliminating standing water, can make an area less appealing to them. Community or local clean-up efforts aimed at reducing breeding sites can also help reduce the chances of a growing mosquito population.
Vaccines and Medical Treatments
Dengue and malaria vaccines are available to reduce the risk of developing these diseases and lessen their severity if contracted. These shots often contain live attenuated virus strains or recombinant protein-based components that help strengthen the body’s defences. However, not all vaccines are suitable for everyone; for instance, the dengue vaccine is recommended only for individuals with a previous documented dengue infection. Generally, there is no cure for mosquito-borne diseases — only symptomatic relief and supportive care.
What’s In the Future for Mosquito-Borne Illnesses
Advancements in research and development will drive progress in our battle against mosquito-borne diseases, particularly in vaccination and treatment. As governments and communities collaborate to improve strategies to curb mosquito populations and respond swiftly to outbreaks, it’s crucial to maintain strong practices in both surveillance and prevention, especially in light of climate change. While completely eradicating these illnesses may be unlikely, the goal is to make them rare and prevent clusters from occurring.
Mark World Mosquito Day with Greater Awareness and Protection at Star Bugs
On 20 August each year, World Mosquito Day is celebrated to honour British medical doctor Sir Ronald Ross’s groundbreaking discovery of the correlation between the Anopheles mosquito and malaria transmission. Join the global effort to fight mosquitoes and their destructive consequences by utilising the knowledge gained from this article, and explore our other mosquito-related resources on our Blog. Learn effective strategies for managing mosquitoes indoors and outdoors. And, remember to seek professional assistance if you encounter a significant mosquito presence.
Star Bugs is a homegrown and NEA-approved pest control company in Singapore, equipped with cutting-edge techniques and eco-friendly yet effective solutions to put an end to pests for good. Contact us today to receive a free quote topped off with an on-site inspection. Don’t wait — every second counts in preventing the spread of dangerous mosquito-borne diseases. Keep your home the mosquito-free sanctuary it deserves to be for yourself, your family and community.