Serious Illnesses You Can Get From Mosquito Bites

Approximately three thousand species of mosquitoes exist, but the most dangerous types are Anopheles, Culex, and Aedes. Although they are small, mosquitoes are one of the most dangerous animals in the world. Approximately one million individuals worldwide suffer from mosquito-borne illnesses every year. Mosquitoes carry feared diseases and parasites to humans, horses, and dogs. This is precisely why it is crucial for everyone to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves against mosquito bites. This typically includes using bug spray, putting up protective nets, and wearing protective clothing.

Get to know the serious illnesses individuals can contract from mosquito bites now.

Chikungunya

The most common symptoms of chikungunya virus are fever and joint pain, though affected individuals may also experience a rash, headache, muscle pain, and joint swelling. Outbreaks of chikungunya virus have occurred in various countries in Europe, Asia, and Africa, along with the Indian and Pacific oceans. In 2013, the virus was found on islands in the Caribbean for the first time. The good news is chikungunya virus is not usually deadly, though unfortunately, the joint pain associated with this illness may last for years, which can lead to chronic pain or disability. There is no vaccine to prevent the development of chikungunya virus, nor is there a treatment available for it. Thus, protective measures like wearing bug spray are particularly important.

Keep reading to learn about the next serious illness individuals can catch from mosquito bites now.

Dengue Fever

Approximately 400 million individuals are affected by dengue fever yearly. This illness is transmitted by female mosquitoes, and typical symptoms include high fever, severe pain behind the eyes, headaches, joint pain, muscle pain, bone pain, mild bleeding, and rash. An affected individual's nose or gums may also bleed easy. Bruising is also a common symptom. Dengue fever can be deadly due to complications with plasma leaking, respiratory distress, severe bleeding, organ impairment, and fluid accumulation. Like chikungunya virus, there is no vaccine or medication to protect individuals from dengue fever, so prevention from getting bitten by mosquitoes in the first place is key.

Get more details on the different illnesses individuals can get from mosquito bites now.