Beware of the risk of mosquito-borne diseases

THERE are thousands of mosquito species worldwide, but three species are particularly dangerous to humans due to the diseases they transmit. The Aedes mosquito is responsi­ble for dengue haemorrhagic fever (DHF), the Anopheles mosquito spreads malaria, and the Culex mosquito causes elephantiasis.

 

As their natures, male mosquitoes feed only on nectar, while female mosquitoes require blood from humans in particular for re­production. This makes female mosquitoes essential for both their reproductive cycles and the spread of mosquito-borne diseases. In response to this process, scientists at Macquarie Uni­versity in Australia have devel­oped genetically modified male mosquitoes that produce toxic proteins in their sperm, which kill female mosquitoes during mating. This strategy aims to reduce the female mosquito population, thereby preventing the spread of diseases.

 

The prevalence of DHF has been rising dramatically over the past five decades, largely due to climate change and different types of pollution. The World Health Organiza­tion (WHO) reported that in 2000, around 500,000 people were affected by dengue haemorrhagic fever. By 2019, the number had increased to approximately 5.2 million, and in 2023, over 6.5 million people were infected. Tragically, DHF led to the deaths of over 7,300 people across 80 countries. In 2024, more than 14 million people worldwide contracted DHF, and over 10,000 people died from the disease.

 

Malaria, which is trans­mitted by the Anopheles mosquito, remains one of the deadliest diseases globally, with the highest mortality rate among mosqui­to-borne illnesses. The disease thrives during the early and late monsoon seasons, contributing to surges in malaria cases. WHO reported that in 2023, malaria affected 263 million people worldwide, with some 597,000 fatalities. In fact, Africa remains the most affected region, accounting for 94 per cent of global malaria cases.

 

Elephantiasis, caused by the Culex mosquito, also leads to severe health complications. While it is less likely to be fatal, elephantiasis causes significant suffering, particularly due to its chronic nature and the socioeconomic challenges it creates for patients. The long-term treatment costs and the daily struggles faced by affected individuals place heavy burdens on their families.

 

Mosquito-borne diseases have widespread impacts on indi­viduals and communities, killing millions annually without bearing any advantages to the society. Preventing mosquito bites through protective measures is vital to reducing the risk of these diseases. People should also seek medical advice and treatment promptly to manage and prevent further complications from these life-threat­ening conditions.