As per the report by National Vector Borne Disease Control , India has recorded 32091 dengue cases recorded till June 2024 and 53497 malaria cases recorded upto May 2024. The monsoon season, characterised by India’s diverse climate and geography, creates an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes. And thus increases the risk of spreading many kinds of mosquito-borne illnesses. Thus on World Mosquito Day, let’s learn about some of these diseases and ways to prevent them.
Malaria
Malaria, transmitted by female Anopheles mosquitoes, remains one of the most prevalent and dangerous mosquito-borne diseases. The initial symptoms, including fever, headache, and chills, usually appear 10 to 15 days after being bitten. Malaria can be life-threatening if not treated promptly, particularly in cases caused by Plasmodium falciparum, the deadliest malaria parasite. Globally, over 247 million cases are reported annually. While treatments and a multi-dose vaccine are available, the disease’s parasites have shown a concerning ability to develop resistance to existing drugs, making treatment increasingly complex.
Dengue
Dengue, often referred to as “break-bone fever” due to the severe pain it can cause, is transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. This species is highly adaptable, thriving in urban environments and living in close proximity to humans. Dengue typically presents with symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, nausea, and fatigue. In severe cases, it can lead to life-threatening complications. While there is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue, symptom management is crucial to preventing the disease from becoming fatal.
Zika Virus
The Zika virus, spread primarily by Aedes mosquitoes, often goes unnoticed due to its asymptomatic nature. However, when symptoms do manifest, they can include fever, rash, headache, joint and muscle pain, and conjunctivitis. A significant concern with Zika is its ability to be transmitted from a pregnant person to their fetus, potentially leading to birth defects such as microcephaly. The risk of vertical transmission, even when the pregnant person shows no symptoms, highlights the importance of mosquito control and protection during pregnancy.
Chikungunya
Chikungunya, another mosquito-borne illness, is primarily transmitted by the Aedes albopictus, also known as the Asian Tiger mosquito. This aggressive species, along with Aedes aegypti, has spread rapidly over the past 30 years, bringing the chikungunya virus to new regions. Symptoms include severe joint pain, fever, and rash, which can be debilitating but are rarely fatal. Despite ongoing research, there are currently no approved vaccines or antiviral treatments for chikungunya, making prevention and mosquito control critical in reducing the spread of this disease.
As India continues to battle these mosquito-borne diseases, public awareness and prevention strategies remain vital. On World Mosquito Day, it’s crucial to emphasize the importance of mosquito control measures, such as using insect repellent, eliminating standing water, and promoting community-level initiatives to reduce mosquito breeding sites.
