Other Mosquito Viruses and Diseases
Mosquitoes can carry many types of diseases that affect Humans. Mosquito borne diseases are caused by bacteria, parasites or viruses. Researchers at The John Hopkins School of Health have determined that mosquitoes become more and more resistant to insecticides each year, resulting in a year over year increase in mosquito transmitted diseases. Common mosquito related diseases include:
Malaria
 Close-up of Malaria |
Malaria is caused by a parasite that is transmitted by the Anopheles mosquito. The parasite grows in the victim's bloodstream and produces symptoms that can develop from six days to several months after infection. Symptoms include fever, chills, headaches, muscle aches and a general flu-like condition. Malaria is a severe disease and can be fatal but can be treated with anti-malarial drugs and prevented using vaccine. Malaria is prevalent in tropical or sub-tropical climates, an estimated 102 countries.
Yellow Fever
Yellow Fever is transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, and is prevalent in Africa. Yellow Fever produces symptoms similar to Malaria, but also includes Nausea, Jaundice and vomiting. Yellow Fever can also be fatal. There is no treatment for the disease, only the symptoms. It can however be controlled by vaccination.
Encephalitis
Encephalitis is caused by a virus transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, or the Culliseta mosquito. There are many types of encephalitis including St Louis, Western Equine, Eastern Equine, La Crosse and West Nile. Symptoms include high fever, stiff neck, headaches, confusion and laziness/sleepiness. Encephalitis is on the rise in the United States and Canada, and has raised concerns about mosquito control.
Dengue Fever
Dengue Fever is transmitted by the Asian Tiger mosquito. It is native to East Asia, but was found in the United States in 1985. It is transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, and is caused by a virus that produces a range of illnesses from viral flu to hemorrhagic fever. It is especially dangerous for children.