Mosquito-borne infections

Mosquitoes are ubiquitous arthropods from the order Diptera and are related to flies. They can be found worldwide except at high latitudes and elevations, as well as during the colder seasons in moderate climates. They can be ectoparasites of practically all vertebrates including humans. Culex pipiens (most common), Culex modestus, Aedes albopictus, Aedes japonicum, Aedes vexans, Aedes cinnereus, Anopheles plumbeus and Anopheles maculipennis complex have all been detected in Serbia. These mosquitoes are vectors for numerous infections including West Nile fever, dirofilariasis, Eastern equine encephalitis, Japanese encephalitis, Rift Valley fever, malaria, dengue, yellow fever, chikungunya, zika and usutuviral, Bataviral, Tahynaviral and Sindbis viral infections. The most common mosquito-borne infection in our country is West Nile fever. This infection can be complicated by the development of encephalitis with a lethality as high as 14% and relatively common neurologic deficits. All patients with an infection of the central nervous system, a rash and arthralgia/arthritis (especially during the summer months) should be evaluated for mosquitoborne pathogens. Patients with chronic conditions and the elderly should take precautions to prevent mosquito-borne diseases. Remaining vigilant for the establishment of autochthonous transmission of deadly mosquito-borne pathogens (e.g. malaria) is of vital importance.