Mosquitoes are flying insects found throughout the world. The females bite humans or animals to obtain blood, which they need to produce eggs. The males do not bite. A doctor should be consulted if there is a severe skin reaction to a mosquito bite. As well as being irritating, mosquito bites can also transmit diseases. The main disease-transmitting mosquitoes belong to 3 groups: (which transmits malaria), (which carries yellow fever), and (which transmits filariasis). Preventive measures should be taken in any area where mosquitoes are rampant. The most effective measures are wearing long sleeves and socks, placing mosquito screens over windows, and using insect-repellent sprays or slowburning coils that release insecticidal smoke. Mosquito nets should be placed over beds. (See also insect bites; insects and disease.)
Mosquito bites |
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