How Much Do You Know About Mosquito-Borne Diseases?

Lyme disease is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected tick. West Nile virus, malaria, and Zika virus can all be passed through the bite of an infected mosquito.

But once someone has been infected by the Zika virus, they will likely not be infected again.

Common symptoms include headache, conjunctivitis, fever, rash, and joint pain. People rarely die from the virus. Mosquitoes that spread Zika typically bite in the daytime.

Around 40% of the world’s population lives in an area where the dengue virus is transmitted, and nearly 400 million people are infected each year.

Common mosquito breeding sites can also include tree holes, toys left outdoors, or even bottle caps. Keep mosquitoes from laying eggs near your home by emptying, covering, throwing away, or turning over any items that hold water.

Also consider using a mosquito bed net if you’re unable to protect yourself from mosquitoes while sleeping.

Insect repellants that have a higher percentage of an active ingredient, such as DEET (a chemical that repels mosquitoes), give longer-lasting protection. Simply apply the repellant according to the label instructions.