World Mosquito Day 2024: Can a Mosquito Bite Mean More Than Just Rashes and Allergies?

Mosquito bites might seem like a minor inconvenience—an itchy bump that fades after a few days. But behind these small irritations lies a much more serious threat.

The bite of a mosquito can carry diseases that impact millions of lives worldwide, turning a simple bite into a potential health crisis. Dr Ajay Agarwal, Senior Director – Internal Medicine, Fortis Hospital, Noida, says, “When a mosquito bites, it triggers an immediate reaction—a raised bump and redness that peak within 20 minutes. This is followed by a more persistent, itchy bump that can last up to 10 days. For those with allergies, these symptoms can escalate, turning a minor annoyance into significant discomfort.”

The real danger extends beyond the itch. Mosquitoes are carriers of deadly diseases such as malaria, dengue, yellow fever, Zika virus, chikungunya, and West Nile virus. These illnesses can cause severe symptoms, long-term health issues, or even death, making mosquito bites a serious concern.

“In India, the burden of mosquito-borne diseases is immense. Malaria, dengue, and chikungunya not only strain our healthcare system but also profoundly affect millions of lives. The financial cost of treating these diseases is staggering, exacerbating the challenges faced by families and public health systems,” adds Dr Agarwal.

The Indian government is tackling this issue through the National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP). This initiative focuses on reducing the incidence of vector-borne diseases through comprehensive surveillance, vector control, and public awareness campaigns. Such efforts are crucial in the fight against mosquito-borne illnesses.

“In contrast, Brazil has taken bold steps by experimenting with genetically modified mosquitoes. These modified insects are designed to curb the population of Aedes aegypti, the primary vector for dengue, Zika, and chikungunya,” shares Dr Agarwal.

Prevention remains crucial. Using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, installing window screens, and eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed are effective measures everyone can adopt.

In summary, while a mosquito bite might appear trivial, the health risks can be severe. Understanding these dangers and supporting public health initiatives are essential to protecting ourselves and our communities from the devastating impact of mosquito-borne diseases. Together, we can make a difference and safeguard our health.