Mosquito Borne Diseases in Australia

The Mosquitoes themselves do not naturally carry disease. It is the manner of transmission that enables infection of many diseases found in the blood of warm-blooded animals such as dengue, and more recently, the Zika virus.
mosquito borne disease

Mosquitoes. An insect so tiny yet incredibly deadly, causing over 1 million reported deaths per year. 

Only the female mosquitoes actually suck blood from warm-blooded mammals. Male mosquitoes feed mostly on nectar or honeydew instead. Female mosquitoes bite mammals as blood contains the protein which is necessary for synthesising eggs, before they are laid in stagnant water for reproduction.

The Mosquitoes themselves do not naturally carry disease. It is the manner of transmission that enables infection of many diseases found in the blood of warm-blooded animals such as dengue, and more recently, the Zika virus.

List of mosquito borne diseases

These are the common and potentially life-threatening mosquito borne diseases:

  1. Dengue
denge rash

One of the most common diseases spread by mosquitoes in tropical climates. This disease is carried and spread primarily by mosquitoes in the genus Aedes. Common symptoms of the dengue virus are:

  • Back and joint pain and discomfort
  • Fever (often 40C or higher)
  • Rashes
  • Eye pain
  1. Yellow fever
yellow fever

Like dengue, this mosquito borne disease is spread primarily by mosquitoes in the Aedes genus, and more specifically the Aedes aegypti dubbed as the "yellow fever mosquito". The yellow fever virus has approximately 3 to 6 days of incubation period from the time of transmission before it shows symptoms which are:

  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Headache
  • Nausea (dizziness)

In some cases, re-occurrences is possible and accompanied by more serious symptoms, including:

  • Vomiting with blood
  • Abdominal discomfort and pain
  • Nosebleeds
  1. Zika virus
zika virus

One of the recent diseases spread by mosquitoes, the Zika virus is a mosquito-borne disease which was first identified in Africa in 1947 and named after the Zika forest. During the recent outbreak, the first reported case was in Brazil in 2015.

Mosquito borne diseases symptoms are:

  • Slight fever
  • Rash
  • Joint pain
  • Conjunctivitis

These symptoms of mosquito borne diseases, however, are mild and about 80% of the people infected will not even be aware that they are infected.

However, this disease can cause a rare birth defect called microcephaly, a neurological disorder that results in babies being born with abnormally small heads and developmental issues, to women who are pregnant whilst infected with the Zika virus.

  1. Malaria
malaria

Caused by parasites, namely the Plasmodium vivax or Plasmodium falciparum which develops in a female Anopheles mosquito for approximately 10 to 18 days and is then transmitted when feeding.

After infection, these parasites migrate to the liver and eventually the bloodstream where they will continue to multiply and damage the red blood cells as they do so.

Symptoms of Malaria include:

  • Fever
  • Sweating
  • Headaches
  • Chills
  1. Chikungunya
chikungunya

A disease also spread by mosquitoes in the Aedes genus, namely the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. Incubation of Chikungunya is usually 3 to 7 days and symptoms include:

  • Sudden fever
  • Chills
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Rash
  • Lower back pain
  • Joint pain

FAQ

Yes. Mosquitoes can transmit bloodborne illnesses, which may then be transmitted through blood transfusion. Some examples include malaria, West Nile virus (WNV) and Zika virus.

There are simple steps of prevention of mosquito borne diseases that you can take to protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites, and the illnesses they can cause.

Protect yourself from illness by doing simple things:

  • Use insect repellents any time you are outdoors
  • Wear long-sleeved clothing
  • Schedule outdoor activities to avoid the hours from dusk to dawn during peak mosquito season
  • Repair damaged window and door screens
  • Remove standing water from the areas around your home
EnviroBug blog and resources

You may be interested in...

Products

-29% sale
Super Indoor Mosquito Killer Dry Trap
Super Indoor Mosquito Killer Dry Trap $149.00 $209.00
Fed up With Annoying Mosquitoes Ruining Your Peace and Quiet This Summer, and Running The Risk of Mosquito Borne Diseases? You need a solution that doesn't involve using poisonous sprays - Zappers that fry and shatter mozzies & bugs - smelly fluid traps that need constant emptying & filling.   The good news is that you can control your mozzie problem successfully and not have to use any of the above! Our Super Indoor EnviroBug Mosquito Killer Traps work by attracting mozzies to the trap using a blue light, emitted at a wavelength that is irresistible to mosquitoes. This light attracts them to fly in through the top of the trap. There is a Titanium Dioxide collar inside the device that, when exposed to the blue light, produces a small (and safe) amount of Carbon Dioxide. This imitates the CO2 released by the skin of mammals, attracting mosquitos into the trap even more powerfully than the light itself. A strong internal fan sucks them down into the basket attached to the bottom of the trap where the constant flow of circulating air kills them by dehydration. NO Smells! - NO stinky fluids to deal with! Our indoor Mosquito Killer Trap helps you protect your family and get your indoor areas back! Unlike other similar products, you won’t have to worry about weird smells or noise, and your kids will have a much healthier environment. This amazing device is entirely safe for the whole family. It's the latest version of our indoor mosquito trap that has proven to be the most reliable successful mosquito fighting machine for more than 10 years and remains a proven performer. Still the most powerful, effective, safe, enviro-friendly and economical way to keep these biting insect pests under control. And it looks great! How do I use it? It really couldn’t be easier – just plug the trap in and let it run. As mosquitos tend to become active around dusk, and the machine is most attractive to mosquitos in low light, the inbuilt light sensor will turn the machine off during the day, and on once the light starts to die down. For best results, place in a corner (at a height of at least 50cm) and let the trap run before bed every night, to clear your room of nasty stingers. Of course, you can use the trap in any room. Features: Safe for children, pregnant women, the elderly and your pets. No radiation, no toxicity and no chemicals. Traps - Not zaps! No smelly Attractants! - No messy fluids! Whisper quiet. Dry trapping system No cleaning needed - simply twist off and tip out the dead mozzies every so often. Auto Sensor operation – turns on when mosquitos start becoming active. Very cheap to run. 12 month replacement warranty. The Super Indoor Mosquito Dry Killer Trap is the ideal way of controlling and reducing mosquito populations by luring and trapping breeding female mosquitoes and preventing the laying of multiple thousands of mosquito eggs.  Did you know that most mosquito species are territorial and live in an area of around 100 meters of where they are born? This fact means you can reduce their population around you, and avoid future swarms.The trap uses a clever automatic closing basket which stops the catch from escaping when the trap is turned off.  Say goodbye to unhygienic devices that can never be properly cleaned! This state-of-the-art insect trap comprises a simple screw-off, which removes easily for regular cleaning and washing.Our trap does all the work for you- safely and without mess.. Just flick the switch and be mozzie FREE in no time!  Don’t forget – this product is fully automatic; the electric mosquito killer has a sensor, so even if you forget to turn on/off the mosquito killer there is no need to worry, the bug killer will automatically turn on at night and automatically turn off during the day. Product specifications: Rated Power: 15W Input: 220-240V, 50/60Hz Material: ABS Light Wave Range: 360-400nm Coverage Area (indoor): up to 80-100 square metres Size: Height: 38.3cm, Width: 15cm, Depth, 15cm  Gross Weight: 1.5kg Package Contents: 1 x Indoor Mosquito Trap
Quick View
-24% sale
Heavy Duty Outdoor Mosquito Mozzie Trap (Super Low Voltage)
Heavy Duty Outdoor Mosquito Mozzie Trap (Super Low Voltage) $159.00 $209.00
Envirobug's unique Heavy Duty Outdoor Mosquito Trap has helped thousands of Australian families reclaim their outdoor spaces from the incessant irritation of mosquitos. Imagine being able to enjoy your enjoy backyard parties, barbecues and dinner parties without the hassle of swarms of blood-sucking mosquitos. It is possible with our weatherproof mosquito trap! Unlike other insect systems, which often use dangerous propane, horrible stenches or expensive refills, the Envirobug Heavy Duty Outdoor Mosquito Trap will effectively attract and trap mosquitos across your entire property – and do so without any zapping, poisons or sprays. But even better, it is incredibly economical – just 15 watts (with a 7w globe)- and can be plugged in anywhere you need to wipe out some nasties. This versatility extends inside your house, as well as outside. Our Heavy Duty Outdoor Mosquito Trap not only takes out mosquitos – it also eliminates West Nile-carrying insects as well as biting flies, Asian beetles, and other flying pests. Say goodbye to unhygienic devices that can never be properly cleaned! This state-of-the-art insect trap comprises a simple screw-off basket, which removes easily for regular cleansing and washing. Our trap does all the work for you- safely and without mess. Just plug it in and be mozzie FREE in no time! Why is this the best outdoor mosquito trap you can buy? Unique design produces an effect that is irresistible to mosquitos (even more attractive than you!) Completely weatherproof design Covers up to 1000 square metres Safe for children, pregnant women, the elderly and your pets. No radiation, no toxicity and no chemicals. Traps - Not zaps! Whisper quiet Dry trapping system No cleaning needed - simply twist off and tip out the dead mozzies every so often. Very cheap to run, with a super-low voltage lamp and powerful fan 12 month replacement warranty.
Quick View
-18% sale
EnviroBug Bug Sabre - Portable Insect Destroyer
EnviroBug Bug Sabre - Portable Insect Destroyer $29.00 $35.00
The EnviroBug Bug Sabre is your ultimate weapon against flying insects. This rechargeable and foldable bug zapper is designed to keep your environment free from mosquitoes, houseflies, and other pesky bugs. Perfect for indoor and outdoor use, the bug zapper racket combines convenience with powerful insect-killing performance. Use as a electric fly swatter for major bug-blasting fun, or fold into a standalone attractant/zapper with optional night light mode. You can even hang this bug zapper racket on the wall! Key Features Powerful Zapping: Effectively eliminates mosquitoes and flies with a high-voltage electric grid. Rechargeable Battery: Built-in rechargeable battery ensures long-lasting use and eliminates the need for disposable batteries. Foldable Design: Compact and foldable, making it easy to store and carry for on-the-go protection. Safe and Easy to Use: Features two layers of safety mesh to prevent accidental contact with the electric grid. Multi-Functional: Ideal for use in homes, offices, gardens, on camping trips, and more. Arm yourself with the EnviroBug Bug Sabre and enjoy a bug-free environment wherever you go. Its powerful, rechargeable, and portable design makes it an essential product for any setting.
Quick View
-20% sale
EnviroBug Mozzie Slayer - Camping Mozzie Zapper with Powerful Light
EnviroBug Mozzie Slayer - Camping Mozzie Zapper with Powerful Light $69.00 $86.00
EnviroBug Mozzie Slayer - Camping Mozzie Zapper with Powerful Light Protect your campsite with our powerful camping mosquito zapper. The perfect mozzie zapper for camping, lightweight, and easy to use Designed for the outdoors, this tool is your ultimate camping companion, offering protection from pests and illumination after sundown. Use the integrated carabiner to hang from your tent of camper ceiling and multitask your lighting and inset-killing needs! Key Features Dual Functionality: Operates as a powerful insect zapper and a bright outdoor light, ensuring you remain bug-free and well-lit during all your adventures. Wide Coverage: Provides effective coverage for up to 150 square metres, attracting and eliminating a range of small flying insects. Powerful Performance: Equipped with a powerful electric shock that delivers an instant kill to pesky insects. Illumination: Features 12 integrated LEDs that efficiently light up a broad area, making it perfect for nighttime activities. Portable Charging: Includes a USB-C rechargeable 2000mAh Li-Ion battery, ensuring long-lasting usage and easy recharging. Waterproof Design: With an IPX5 waterproof rating, it is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use under various weather conditions. Silent & Odourless: Enjoy a peaceful outdoor experience with its silent operation and odourless functionality. User-Friendly Interface: Comes with an LCD display showing battery level and mode, adding convenience to your outdoor activities. Versatility: Features an integrated folding hook for easy hanging, perfect for tents, branches, or anywhere you need.
Quick View

Designed for Australian Conditions

Eco-friendly

No poisons

12 month warranty

30 Day

satisfaction guarantee

Afterpay American Express Apple Pay Bitcoin Google Pay Shop Pay Visa PayPal Mastercard