Many tropical diseases are spread through the bites of infected insects, such as mosquitoes and flies. Globally, more than one billion people are affected by neglected tropical diseases. Africa accounts for nearly 40% of these, meaning around 400 million people are affected across the continent. This makes awareness and bite prevention especially important.
How insect bites spread disease
Some insects carry germs that cause illness. When an infected insect bites a person, those germs can enter the body through the skin and lead to infection. Insects known to spread disease through bites include mosquitoes, sandflies, Tsetse flies and Blackflies. These insects are more active in warm climates and often breed near standing water, rivers, or damp environments.
Common tropical diseases spread by insect bites
Here are some well-known examples:
- Malaria is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Malaria affects the blood and can cause fever, chills, and extreme tiredness.
- Dengue fever is caused by mosquitoes, causing high fever, headaches, and body pain.
- Chikungunya is also spread by mosquitoes and is known for fever and joint pain that may last for weeks.
- Leishmaniasis
Spread through the bite of infected sandflies. It can affect the skin and, in some cases, internal organs. - Sleeping sickness
Spread through the bite of infected tsetse flies. It affects the nervous system and can be fatal if untreated. - River blindness
Spread through the bite of infected blackflies. It affects the skin and eyes and may lead to vision problems over time.
How to reduce the risks
Reducing insect bites i.e. not getting bitten in the first place, is the most effective way to lower the risk of these diseases.
Try:
- Wearing long sleeves and trousers where possible, as well as avoiding bright colors
- Using insect repellent
- Sleeping under mosquito nets
- Removing standing water around homes
- Keeping doors and windows screened
- Inspecting vehicles for tsetse flies before entering, as they are attracted to moving vehicles
- Seeking medical care early if you feel unwell
Why awareness is important
Diseases spread by insect bites continue to affect millions of people every year. Many are preventable and treatable. Clear information helps people protect themselves and their families.
References
https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-ntd-day/2025/brief-outline
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12817633/#
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/trypanosomiasis
