What Are Mosquito-Borne Diseases? Mosquito-borne diseases are illnesses spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. They include: chikungunya dengue fever Eastern and Western equine encephalitis Japanese encephalitis La Crosse encephalitis malaria St. Louis encephalitis West Nile virus yellow fever Zika virus Viruses cause most diseases spread to people by mosquitoes. Malaria is caused by a parasite. Different mosquitoes carry different diseases. How common these illnesses are depends on where people live or travel to, and the time of year. What Are the Signs & Symptoms of Mosquito-Borne Diseases? Signs and symptoms vary depending on the mosquito-borne disease. Most people don't get sick, or have only mild symptoms after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Signs and symptoms may include: fever headache muscle pain joint pain rash vomiting diarrhea Rarely, mosquito-borne diseases can cause serious problems, such as encephalitis, a swelling of the brain. How Are Mosquito-Borne Diseases Treated? Most mosquito-borne diseases do not have specific treatments. Someone with a mosquito-borne infection should get plenty of fluids and rest. Doctors will treat symptoms, such as fever or pain, and watch for any problems. There are prevention medicines and specific treatments for malaria. Can Mosquito-Borne Diseases Be Prevented? The best protection against mosquito-borne diseases is to prevent bites by infected mosquitoes. Be sure to: Use screens on doors and windows, and repair broken or damaged screens right away. Keep unscreened doors and windows shut. Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, shoes, and socks outside, and use mosquito netting over beds. Use insect repellent as directed. Choose one with DEET or picaridin. For kids over 3 years old, you also can use oil of lemon eucalyptus. Limit time outside around dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active. Don't give mosquitoes places to breed. They lay their eggs in water, so get rid of standing water in things like buckets, trash cans, and tires. Empty and clean birdbaths, dog bowls, and flowerpots at least once a week. Vaccines can prevent some mosquito-borne illnesses, such as dengue fever, yellow fever, and Japanese encephalitis. Talk to your doctor if you live or travel to places where mosquito-borne diseases are found. Back to Articles Related Articles Hey! A Mosquito Bit Me! There are thousands of different kinds of mosquitoes in many different sizes and colors. Learn all about mosquitoes and how they bite you in this article. Read More Bug Bites and Stings Most bug bites and stings are just annoying. But some can cause infections and allergic reactions. It's important to know what to watch for, and when to get medical attention. Read More Bug Bites and Stings Generally, insect bites and stings are harmless. Find out how to keep pests from ruining your fun. Read More Dengue Fever This infectious disease can cause high fevers, headaches, rashes, and pain throughout the body. Find out what to do about dengue fever - and how to avoid it. Read More Dengue Fever You're not at risk of this illness in the U.S., but if you live in or are traveling to a tropical country it's wise to take precautions against this virus. Read More Encephalitis Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain. Although encephalitis sounds scary, understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment can help you feel prepared to deal with it if you ever need to. Read More Encephalitis Encephalitis is a rare brain inflammation caused by a virus. The best way to avoid encephalitis is to prevent the illnesses that may lead to it. Read More Malaria Malaria - a common infection in hot, tropical areas - is a leading cause of death worldwide. But if diagnosed early and treated, it can be cured. Read More West Nile Virus The threat of West Nile virus has made getting a mosquito bite a cause for concern. What is West Nile virus, and what can you do to prevent it? Read More Zika Virus With so much media coverage about Zika virus, it's natural to feel worried. The virus is of most concern for pregnant women and women who may become pregnant. Read More Staying Healthy While You Travel When you're traveling with your kids, there's a chance that someone might get sick. But early planning and smart packing can help ensure your family stays healthy and safe. Read More Germs: Bacteria, Viruses, Fungi, and Protozoa Germs are the microscopic bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa that can cause disease. Read More Germs: Bacteria, Viruses, Fungi, and Protozoa Germs are tiny organisms that can cause disease - and they're so small that they can creep into your system without you noticing. Find out how to protect yourself. Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.