Mosquitoes are vectors for many dreaded diseases such as malaria, dengue, Zika, filariasis, chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis and many other viral diseases. Mosquitoes undergo a complete metamorphosis, meaning a four-stage lifecycle which includes eggs, larvae, pupae and adults. Adults lay eggs on or near standing water and the larvae complete their development in the aquatic environment. The lifespan of a female mosquito, from egg through adult, varies according to ambient temperature and species .The three most important groups of mosquitoes which impact man are from the genera Anopheles, Aedes and Culex.
Type of mosquitoes
Anopheles – Causes for malaria. The biting female Anopheles mosquito may carry malaria. Anopheles breeds in stagnant collections of clean water such as ponds, lakes, overhead . Midnight biter.
Aedes – Responsible causing Dengue, Chikungunya, Zika. Day time biter. They breeds in clean water.
Culex – Responsible for causing Filariasis, Japanese Encephalitis. Culex breeds in stagnant collection of polluted water such as drains, cess pools, gutters and a major nuisance after dusk.
Stop Dengue : Dengue Prevention Issued By Eco Nation
Dengue & Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) are diseases transmitted by female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. These mosquitoes bite mainly during day and rest in dark corners, shaded vegetation or under furniture in homes. Every responsible citizen should contribute in containing this disease by simple measures that prevent breeding. These mosquitoes breed in clean stagnant water present in discarded plastic containers, empty cans, old tyres, trays below refrigerators and in air-conditioning units, water coolers, flower vases, overhead tanks. Eggs laid are attached to wet surfaces of the container and can survive without water, hatching after a long dry spell.
Changing water once weekly in flower vases and drain trays of potted plants.
Covering overhead tank to prevent access to mosquitoes.
Preventing indoor or outdoor water stagnation even in smallest of containers.
Using mosquito nets at home.
Not storing water in open containers & covering all water containers with lids.
Ensure your children wear full sleeved and long legged clothes for protection against Aedes bites