Mosquito-borne illnesses can be debilitating and become worse if not detected and treated early. They can get worse and more severe, leading to complications and, in certain cases, death. Reportedly, mosquito-borne diseases claim over 10 lakh lives and infect up to 70 crore people each year. Dengue is one of the most transmitted mosquito-borne illnesses, found in more than 100 countries, affecting an estimated 5–10 crore people globally each year, accounting for 25,000 deaths.
Experts around the world advocate for vigilance and take up various initiatives to spread awareness about preventing mosquito-borne illnesses. In line with these efforts, OnlyMyHealth’s Mosquito-Mukt India initiative is all geared up for World Mosquito Day 2024. This article highlights the importance of recognising the early warning signs of mosquito-borne diseases and the crucial precautions needed to protect yourself and your community.
Also Read: Mosquito-Mukt India: Understanding The Types Of Mosquito-Borne Diseases And How They Spread
Fever Is The Most Common Symptom
Dr Suchismitha Rajamanya, Lead Consultant and HOD - Internal Medicine, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru, lists a few symptoms of mosquito-borne illnesses, of which fever is the most common and characteristic of almost all types of mosquito-related conditions.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), dengue symptoms can begin 4–10 days after infection and last for 2–7 days. The fever associated with the condition can be as high as 40°C/104°F, accompanied by severe headaches. While malaria is associated with severe chills and shivering, fever is a common symptom, with temperatures touching a high of 41 °C/105.8 °F.
Understanding Headaches Triggered By Mosquito-Borne Illness
Headaches associated with mosquito-borne illnesses can be severe and debilitating. Many people complain of having intense, throbbing pain on one or both sides of the head. Sometimes, the pain can occur behind the eye. In cases of malaria, the headaches are typically recurrent and coincide with fever spikes. One way to recognise the severity is by how it impacts daily activities and overall well-being. If symptoms persist, it is crucial to seek medical attention.
Generalised Body Pain
Body pain, which could include joint, muscle, and bone pain, is a telltale sign of mosquito-borne illnesses like chikungunya. The WHO shares that the condition is characterised by "an abrupt onset of fever, frequently accompanied by severe joint pain." This type of pain can be debilitating and usually lasts for a few days but may sometimes last for weeks, months, or even years, as the healthy body further explains.
Skin Rashes
Skin rashes are a common symptom in some types of mosquito-borne illnesses, including Zika virus, chikungunya, and dengue. These are different from the bumps you get from mosquito bites. In the case of dengue, these usually occur 2–5 days after the fever starts or may appear later in the disease. Rashes from the Zika virus appear 3–14 days after the infection.
Also Read: The Risk Of Severe Dengue, Possible Death: Actions To Take Before It's Too Late
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Mosquito-borne illnesses can also cause a range of gastrointestinal problems that add to the severity of the disease. These symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhoea, which can be more common in illnesses like dengue and chikungunya. In some cases, the symptoms can be very severe, leading to dehydration and weakness.
Precautions To Take
Dr Rajamanya highlights the importance of taking proper precautions during peak breeding seasons for mosquitoes. These include:
- Using odour-free mosquito repellents and nets
- Wearing long-sleeved clothes in areas where there are lots of mosquitoes around
- Getting rid of stagnant water within one’s premises
- Using unscented products when going outdoors
- Practising good hygiene
The doctor concludes that while most mosquito bites are harmless, the potential for serious illness underscores the importance of preventive measures and timely medical consultation if symptoms appear. It is crucial to recognise all signs and symptoms and take steps as early as possible.