Mosquitoes are vectors for several serious diseases, including malaria, dengue fever, Zika virus, chikungunya and West Nile virus etc. These mosquito-borne diseases can cause life-threatening illness if ignored.
For some individuals, mosquito bites can trigger severe allergic reactions, resulting in symptoms like swelling, redness, and itching. These reactions can last for days, causing considerable discomfort and, in some cases, requiring medical attention.
The presence of mosquitoes can make outdoor activities, such as evening walks, unbearable. This can lead to a reduction in outdoor work and activities, affecting both physical health and social interactions.
The buzzing of mosquitoes at night and the subsequent itching from bites can lead to sleep disturbances. Lack of sleep can have a ripple effect on daily life, impacting concentration, productivity, and overall well-being.
To combat mosquitoes, people often resort to using insecticides and repellents. While effective, these chemicals can have adverse environmental effects, including pollution and harm to species like bees and butterflies.
The constant fear of mosquito bites for those living in high-risk areas can lead to chronic stress, affecting mental health and quality of life.
Mosquitoes are not just a threat to humans but also to animals. They can transmit diseases like Rift Valley fever to livestock, affecting animal health and reduce agricultural productivity. This, in turn, affects the livelihoods of farmers.
Mosquitoes play a role in ecosystems as prey for other species, but their overpopulation can disrupt biodiversity, impacting the balance of species.
Dr Sanjay Dhall, Senior Director, Internal Medicine, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Shalimar Bagh