Review Article

Mosquito-borne diseases: a review of the risks to humans, Iraq

Abstract

Mosquitoes are a major player in the spread of malaria, a parasite that killed an estimated 627,000 people in 2020 alone—as well as viruses like Zika and dengue. The Anopheles gambiae mosquito, common in rural Africa, is often called “the deadliest animal on Earth,” according to a 2020 study. There are about 3,500 species of mosquito, but “only about 100 are likely to bite and spread disease to humans.” The most medically important genera, Culex, Anopheles, and Aedes, carry a range of diseases, including malaria, dengue, West Nile fever, yellow fever, Zika, chikungunya, and lymphatic filariasis. Mosquito-borne diseases have been a serious scourge for humans and animals. This review aims to bring together a wealth of information and evidence about which mosquito species transmit diseases or cause health problems in Iraq. One of the most common diseases in Iraq is malaria, which is caused by the Plasmodium parasite. This disease is spread by the bite of female Anopheles mosquitoes. Anopheles mosquitoes are commonly referred to as “malaria mosquitoes” due to their association with malaria transmission. These mosquito species are best known as vectors of malaria, a life-threatening disease caused by Plasmodium parasites. They can also transmit other diseases, such as lymphatic filariasis and various forms of encephalitis. Given their role in transmitting malaria, controlling Anopheles mosquitoes is critical to preventing the spread of the disease. Strategies include residual spraying, larval control measures, and more. Understanding Anopheles mosquitoes, their association with malaria transmission, and their global distribution is essential to implementing effective control measures. Another common disease in Iraq is yellow fever. This fever is also spread by contact with mosquitoes. Although its severity varies, the mortality rate can reach significant levels.