World Mosquito Day 2019
World Mosquito Day 2019
This World Mosquito Day help us continue our mission for a malaria-free world, where no child dies from a mosquito bite.
IT'S TIME TO END IT FOR GOOD.
On the 20 August of 1897, Sir Ronald Ross discovered that female mosquitoes transmit malaria between humans. Since then, we've followed it's devastating effect. In fact, it’s said to have killed half the people that ever lived - 54 billion people. Despite huge progress in the fight against our deadliest enemy, global efforts have now stalled and, for the first time, we're seeing malaria rising in the highest burden countries. We can't let this happen. Together, we can be the generation that ends malaria for good.
MOSQUITO Q&A
When is World Mosquito Day?
World Mosquito Day is celebrated on the 20th of August of every year.
What is World Mosquito Day?
On this day in 1897, Sir Ronald Ross discovered the link between mosquitoes, malaria and humans. He found out that the malaria parasite is transmitted to human beings due to the bite of certain mosquitoes.
What is malaria?
Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease caused by a parasite. It’s a preventable and curable disease but unfortunately, it threatens the lives of millions of people around the world.
Do all mosquitoes transmit malaria?
No. Only the infected female anopheles are able to transmit malaria to humans.
How does a mosquito transmit malaria? / Can one mosquito bite cause malaria?
An infected mosquito can transmit malaria to a human just by biting. IF a malaria-carrying mosquito bites you, the parasite will be released into your bloodstream infecting your body.
Do mosquitoes bite in the day? / When are mosquitoes most active?
Mosquitoes don’t usually bite in the day. They are most active at dusk and at night. However, it’s important to remained protected during the whole day!
How many people die each year of malaria?
Latest data shows that 435,000 people died from malaria in 2017. But there’re 219 million cases of malaria worldwide every year.
How many countries have cases of malaria?
Malaria is found in more than 100 countries, mainly in tropical areas of the world. However, approximately 70% of the world’s malaria burden is concentrated in 11 countries: 10 on the African continent, and India. While malaria is not found in the UK, it can be diagnosed in travellers who return to the UK from endemic countries.
How to prevent malaria?
If you’re travelling to a malaria risk area, it’s crucal that you protect yourself against the disease. Take your malaria tablets, use mosquito repellent and always sleep under a mosquito net.
Mary's story
Mary’s daughter Lucy suffered with cerebral malaria – one of the worst forms of the disease. She was in hospital for over a week to get life-saving treatment, which, aside from the agony of watching your child suffer, came at a huge financial cost to Mary and their family.
We’re working with governments to ensure they have the health systems in place to protect communities like Mary’s. Lucy’s daughter is well and back at school now. Since her time in hospital their neighbour has become a Community Health Worker and is teaching the community how to keep themselves protected.
“Malaria is very common in my village... I now understand how to protect my family better thanks to the information from my neighbour…”
