Understand the importance of this day in the prevention of diseases transmitted by mosquitoes

World Mosquito Day is celebrated on August 20 each year

The relevance of celebrating World Mosquito Day, an event that commemorates the discovery of mosquitoes that spread disease in humans, is still extremely important today. Mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue and chikungunya are still prevalent in most parts of the country due to poor hygiene, rapid urbanization and poor wastewater management, for to name a few. The theme of the year 2021 for World Mosquito Day was to achieve the goal of zero malaria and other diseases that mosquitoes are carriers or vectors.

World Mosquito Day 2021: Know the meaning of this day

The method of transmission begins with the introduction of the parasite into human blood through the bite of a mosquito. Mosquitoes act as “vectors” or “carriers” for these diseases where the virus lives inside the animal and transmits these viruses to infect humans through a bite. This transmission of disease from animals to humans is a process called zoonosis. Other examples of vector-borne zoonotic diseases include West Nile virus, dengue fever, malaria, and Lyme disease. The symptoms of these diseases often overlap and can be identified with the help of diagnostic tests. Symptoms usually depend on the severity of the infection in a person. Some signs of malaria, dengue, and chikungunya result in muscle aches, fatigue, headache, high fever, weakness, joint pain, rash, etc. However, in the case of dengue fever, the severity of the disease can also impact the organs and platelet count, causing organ failure, breathing difficulties and internal bleeding. The sooner the treatment is provided, the better.

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Proper awareness through campaigns can help identify symptoms when people are infected. As the increase in infection is largely seasonal, these awareness campaigns are targeted before the monsoons, which are usually the peak season for these diseases as mosquitoes breed in stagnant water.

World Mosquito Day 2021: Don’t ignore the early symptoms of mosquito-borne diseases
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According to Dr Monica Goel, consultant physician of PD Hinduja Hospital & MRC, “Lack of awareness of diseases and infections, especially in rural areas, is one of the main gaps that prevent people from accessing treatment. Statistically speaking, mosquito-borne illnesses in India have declined over the past two years, but much remains to be done. Lack of access to platelets for patients who require emergency platelet transfusion in an emergency is also one of the biggest hurdles. “

Deaths from mosquito-borne diseases are preventable, provided they are recognized and detected early. Today, more and more doctors are on high alert, to diagnose and provide treatment, in a timely manner. The stages of diagnosis include early detection of the disease through immediate blood tests, which would only take a few hours. This would then automatically allow prompt and appropriate treatment.

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Since most of these illnesses require preventative care, Dr. Goel says some simple tips to follow to prevent possible infection. Some of these tips include using mosquito repellants when you go out, wearing long sleeves, putting screens on windows, and keeping the environment clean. Adequate measures must be taken to protect himself and his family members.

(Dr Monica Goel is a consultant physician at PD Hinduja Hospital & MRC, Mumbai)

Disclaimer: This content, including the tips, provides generic information only. It does not in any way replace qualified medical advice. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.