This is probably the most asked question in the United States today, can mosquitoes transmit Ebola virus? You know what is being spread faster then the virus? – It’s Fear!
People are starting to freak out! Everyone’s talking about this virus and majority are probably seriously taking extra precaution against this dreaded Ebola virus. But what about mosquitoes? Mosquitoes are known since ancient times, as carriers of diseases such as Malaria, Dengue and West Nile Virus, but for Ebola, can mosquitoes become legitimate carriers? Let’s find out.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention posted in their website the following:
“There is no evidence that mosquitoes or other insects can transmit Ebola virus. Only mammals (for example, humans, bats, monkeys and apes) have shown the ability to spread and become infected with Ebola virus”.
What could be the reason for their claim? Well here’s another post from CDCP,
Unlike respiratory illnesses like measles or chickenpox, which can be transmitted by virus particles that remain suspended in the air after an infected person coughs or sneezes, Ebola is transmitted by direct contact with body fluids of a person who has symptoms of Ebola disease. Although coughing and sneezing are not common symptoms of Ebola, if a symptomatic patient with Ebola coughs or sneezes on someone, and saliva or mucus come into contact with that person’s eyes, nose or mouth, these fluids may transmit the disease.
According to researchers, the main carriers of Ebola virus in Africa are not mosquitoes, but birds, bats, monkeys and other mammals. A person can also contract this virus if he eats fresh meat of sick butchered animals.
It is important to know that the three vital entry points for Ebola virus are, the conjunctiva, the nasal passages and the mouth. So using face masks in public places especially in crowded areas won’t hurt.
Here’s a graphical illustration of how this virus is spread throughout the body of an infected person and it is transmitted to others.
However, if you are the cautious type, applying mosquito repellents will protect you not only from mosquito bites, but also from the fear of this virus.
Keep safe people of America!
Can Mosquitoes Transmit Ebola Virus? Learn from Richmond Indiana Exterminator
