Can Mosquitoes Transfer Diseases to Humans?
WouterWhether mosquitoes can transfer diseases to humans is something that you should think about. These little critters are known to carry a number of different illnesses. They can be found in a variety of different places, including Africa, Southeast Asia, and many parts of the United States.
Some mosquitoes have been reported to carry a variety of diseases, including Zika, West Nile, and dengue. Some of these infections are rare, but some can be serious.
While it is true that mosquitoes are capable of carrying a wide variety of diseases, there are only a few species that can actually transmit them to people. There are three genera of mosquitoes that are known to be able to do this. These species include the Culex mosquito, the Aedes aegypti, and the Aedes albopictus.
Each of these species is different and has a different life cycle. Some mosquitoes breed in wading pools, while others can live in tall grass or shrubbery.
Depending on the species, the life cycle of a mosquito can last anywhere from one to two weeks. During the first few days after being bitten, you may not develop any symptoms. Symptoms usually appear within three to ten days, but can be long-lasting.
Some people can get a mild form of encephalitis from being bitten by a mosquito. If you are suffering from this type of illness, you may experience a headache, stiff neck, and high fever. Other people who are infected may develop a more severe form of the disease, which can result in permanent neurological damage.
