World Mosquito Day
World ObservancesWhat Is World Mosquito Day?
August 20th is "World Mosquito Day." Named by the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine in the UK, this international observance raises awareness of mosquito-borne diseases and the threat they pose worldwide.
A Day Born From Dr. Ross's Discovery
World Mosquito Day exists to spread awareness of the diseases mosquitoes carry, and to highlight the importance of prevention and control.
- Origin: On August 20, 1897, British physician Ronald Ross discovered that malaria parasites develop and are transmitted inside Anopheles mosquitoes.
- Legacy: Ross's discovery earned him the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1902.
- Purpose: The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine designated this day to raise awareness of mosquito-borne illness.
A Tiny Insect With an Outsized Impact
Mosquitoes transmit not only malaria but also dengue fever, Japanese encephalitis, and other diseases. Ross's discovery was the first step in understanding how these illnesses spread, and it laid the groundwork for major advances in preventive medicine.
Ways to Mark the Day
- Learn more about the diseases mosquitoes can carry
- Check for standing water and review your household's mosquito-prevention habits
- Read about Ronald Ross and the history of malaria research
- Review disease-prevention steps before traveling abroad
Small Precautions, Healthier Days
World Mosquito Day is a chance to pay attention to a creature we often overlook, and to think about how knowledge helps prevent disease. On August 20th, take a moment to consider the connection between mosquitoes and public health.