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Wind-borne mosquitoes spread deadly viruses high above Africa
8 Jan
Summary
- High-flying mosquitoes carrying West Nile and dengue found in West Africa.
- Study shows wind-borne insects can transmit diseases far from their origin.
- Warming planet increases mosquito range, raising disease risks globally.
High-flying mosquitoes, capable of long-distance wind-borne migration, have been found to carry dangerous pathogens, including West Nile virus and dengue. Researchers collected over a thousand female mosquitoes at altitudes of 120 to 290 meters above Mali and Ghana. Subsequent testing identified 21 distinct pathogens, confirming the potential for these insects to transmit diseases far beyond their departure points.
This discovery carries significant public health implications, particularly as global temperatures rise. Mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue, which can cause severe symptoms and even death, are becoming more prevalent due to mosquitoes expanding their territories and active seasons. The year 2024 has already been marked as the worst on record for dengue cases worldwide.
Efforts to combat these diseases are ongoing, with advancements in preventative vaccines and improved mosquito nets showing promise. A single-dose malaria vaccine demonstrates high efficacy, and specialized nets distributed in high-risk areas have been credited with saving numerous lives. These innovations aim to mitigate the increasing risks posed by the global spread of mosquito-borne pathogens.
