DVIDS – News – August 20th was World Mosquito Day…yes, you read that right!

Did you know that mosquitoes claim more human lives than any other animal on earth?

August 20 is dedicated to the pesky insect that can transmit vector-borne diseases such as Zika, dengue fever, malaria, chikungunya and yellow fever and is a nuisance during outdoor activities.

During the Spanish-American War, more American soldiers died from yellow fever, malaria, and other diseases than in combat. After the end of the Spanish-American War in 1898, American forces occupied the island of Cuba, including Guantanamo Bay, where the Battle of Cuzco Wells was fought.

Tropical diseases were a major concern of the government because of their impact on the health of the military. Army Major Walter Reed and a team of doctors were sent to study the diseases, especially the pathogenic mechanism of yellow fever. The discovery of the cause of yellow fever is considered one of the most important contributions to the field of medicine and human history.

At the U.S. Naval Hospital Guantanamo Bay, the Preventive Medicine team monitors the mosquito population. Whether studying the different species found here or collecting samples for further testing off the island, the team helps ensure that these pesky insects do not make our population sick.

Learn about mosquito-borne diseases and how to protect yourself: www.Health.mil/mosquito