Mosquitoes are flying insects commonly found in many parts of the world. The mosquito life cycle begins with eggs that hatch into larvae, then become pupae, and finally mature into adult mosquitoes.

Most mosquito species have a life cycle that develops in water, such as ponds, puddles, and small rivers. In the water, eggs hatch into larvae and then into pupae. After a few days, the pupae develop into adult mosquitoes.

The transitional season or rainy season often becomes an ideal time for mosquitoes to breed due to the abundant water available for larvae and pupae. Therefore, the number of adult mosquitoes observed around us often increases during these seasons. Mosquitoes can pose health problems as they can carry diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and chikungunya.

Dengue Fever (DF) is a disease caused by the dengue virus transmitted by Aedes aegypti or Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. The dengue virus spreads through the bite of an infected mosquito and attacks the human immune system, causing high fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle and joint pain, skin rash, and bleeding in severe cases. If you or a family member experience symptoms of dengue fever, seek medical attention immediately and avoid self-medicating. It is crucial to prevent more serious complications of dengue fever.

Chikungunya is a disease caused by the chikungunya virus, transmitted through the bites of Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, similar to the transmission of dengue fever. Common early symptoms of chikungunya include fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, and skin rash. Additionally, other symptoms such as sore throat, fatigue, and gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and vomiting may also occur.

The main difference between chikungunya and dengue fever is that dengue fever causes a very high rise in body temperature and can lead to bleeding in various parts of the body, whereas chikungunya usually does not cause bleeding and joint symptoms are more predominant. If you suspect you have contracted the chikungunya virus, consult a doctor promptly for appropriate treatment and to prevent the spread of the disease.

Prevention is better than cure. Some ways to prevent an increase in the mosquito population around your home include:

• Reducing Mosquito Breeding Sites: Aedes aegypti mosquitoes typically breed in stagnant water such as buckets, unused bathtubs, flower pots containing water, and more. Therefore, ensure there are no places around your home where mosquitoes can breed.
• Wearing Protective Clothing: Additionally, avoid wearing bright-colored clothing as it can attract mosquitoes.
• Using Mosquito Nets While Sleeping: This can protect you from mosquito bites while you sleep.
• Regularly Cleaning the Surrounding Environment: Ensure to dispose of trash properly and clean the area around your home regularly.
• Calling Professional Pest Control Services: Professional pest control services can eliminate mosquitoes and provide additional benefits such as reducing disease risk, improving indoor air quality, alleviating itching and skin irritation, saving time and effort, and preventing future infestations.