World Mosquito Day Date in the current year: August 20, 2015
World Mosquito Day is an annual observance held on August 20. It was created by British medical doctor Sir Donald Ross to commemorate his discovery that female Anopheles mosquitoes are responsible for malaria transmission.Malaria is an infectious decease caused by parasitic protozoans. It is widespread in tropical and subtropical regions in Africa, Asia and Latin America. Until 1897, people had not known how malaria was transmitted, so they could do nothing to combat the disease.In 1895, Donald Ross, who was working in the Indian Medical Service at the time, first observed the malaria parasite (Plasmodium) in the gastrointestinal tract of a mosquito. However, the historic discovery was made two years later.
On August 20, 1897, Ross confirmed that the presence of the parasite inside the mosquito was not a coincidence. He was awarded the 1902 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for his discovery of the life cycle of Plasmodium.
World Mosquito Day celebrations have been held by the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine since the 1930s. They aim to raise awareness about malaria treatment and prevention. Other health care organizations and institutions, such as Malaria No More, also organize events and activities on the occasion.
Mosquito Control Tips
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Eliminate standing water in low spots, ditches, gutters and similar areas- Empty receptacles that collect water (eg bird baths and pot plant saucers)
- Reduce breeding sites by keeping grass mown
- Mosquito netting/screens can be used to provide mosquito-free areas
- Light coloured clothing is less attractive to some mosquito species and if tightly woven, can give some protection against biting
- DEET is considered the most effective mosquito repellent, but should not be used too heavily or on infants under 2 months. An alternative repellent Picaridin by Bayer, is an odorless and colorless repellent and has been recommended by the World Health Organization for use in Malaria stricken countries.
Eliminate standing water in low spots, ditches, gutters and similar areas