How Do Mosquitoes Release Venom?
WouterSeveral hundred thousand people die every year from diseases transmitted by mosquitoes. These diseases include malaria, dengue fever, West Nile virus, and chikungunya fever.
The most common mosquito-transmitted disease is malaria. Although malaria is uncommon in the United States, it is still a concern in some tropical regions. In 2019, the World Health Organization reported 227 million cases of malaria.
Some mosquitoes can carry viruses that cause yellow fever and dengue fever. In some parts of the United States, mosquitoes also carry West Nile.
Mosquitoes bite humans and animals in order to feed. They inject saliva into the bloodstream when they bite. This saliva helps mosquitoes acquire blood from their host without blood clotting. The saliva also helps mosquitoes avoid inflammation.
Mosquito saliva contains proteins that help the mosquitoes extract blood more quickly. These proteins also prevent blood vessels from clotting.
After a mosquito bites a human, the immune system releases a chemical called histamine. Histamine causes the itchiness that comes with mosquito bites. It also increases the blood flow around the site of the bite.
A severe allergic reaction can also occur. This reaction can cause fever and body aches. People with impaired immune systems may experience a more serious response.
Researchers have studied the anatomy of mosquito bites for many years. During this time, they have learned how the human immune system reacts to the saliva. Scientists hope that their work will lead to the development of a natural insect repellent.
