Scientific research has been uncovering an unsettling behavior in dengue‑carrying mosquitoes when they become infected. A study published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B found that the dengue virus can actually alter the behavior of Aedes aegypti , making the mosquito more persistent in its search for human hosts. According to the study, infected mosquitoes tend to bite more often and actively seek out new people—without increasing the amount of blood they consume. In

The dengue mosquito does not behave the same way throughout the day. Aedes aegypti has an internal biological clock that regulates its periods of greatest activity, increasing the risk of bites at specific times, mainly early in the morning and late in the afternoon. During these peak periods, the female mosquito becomes more sensitive to carbon dioxide (CO₂) released through human breathing. This gas acts as a signal that indicates the presence of a potential food source, p

A large-scale study conducted by Fiocruz, Brazil’s leading public health research institution, recognized globally for its scientific excellence, has revealed that arbovirus infections during pregnancy are linked to significant risks for childbirth and newborn health. The analysis of more than 6.9 million live births between 2015 and 2020 showed that diseases transmitted by Aedes aegypti , such as dengue, Zika, and chikungunya, increase the likelihood of preterm birth, low bi

Vaccines are a major step forward in the fight against dengue, as they help protect people and reduce the risk of severe cases. But that doesn’t mean other strategies become unnecessary. Vaccines and mosquito traps don’t compete with each other—they address different parts of the same problem. Vaccination strengthens individual protection. Sustainable traps, on the other hand, act on the environment by helping reduce the presence of Aedes aegypti . Even with vaccination, the

Controlling Aedes aegypti , the mosquito responsible for spreading dengue, Zika, and chikungunya, requires strategies that accurately reflect the insect’s real behavior. A recent scientific study has revealed that biological agents can be transmitted between mosquitoes during mating, leading to the death of female mosquitoes after copulation. Researchers found that male mosquitoes contaminated with fungi commonly used in insect control are capable of passing these agents to f

A new study led by scientists from Mahidol University in Thailand, in partnership with the University of Cambridge in the UK, reveals that a significant portion of people infected with the dengue virus show no symptoms of the disease. While the body manages to contain the infection, the virus persists. In practice, this means dengue can circulate within a community even when official case numbers appear under control, and asymptomatic individuals can serve as a source of infe

As we enter 2026, concerns about a potential new wave of dengue outbreaks are mounting worldwide. The data from 2025 serves as a stark warning: turning the calendar does not end the dengue threat, which continues to demand constant global vigilance. In 2025, more than 4 million cases were reported across 101 countries , according to the World Health Organization. With 3.6 billion people living in at-risk areas, dengue remains one of the fastest-growing mosquito-borne diseas

Much is said about how to avoid dengue, but misconceptions still create a false sense of security. In reality, these beliefs often fail to provide real protection. Below, we debunk some of the most common myths and reinforce what truly matters. Myth 1: “Dengue only occurs where there’s trash, debris, or sewage.” Why it’s a myth: The main factor isn’t garbage—it’s standing water, even in small amounts. Aedes aegypti thrives in plant saucers, bottle caps, gutters, vases, and

Chikungunya is often perceived as a disease marked by fever and severe joint pain. But recent scientific findings reveal that this virus can act in far more complex and dangerous ways than previously imagined, posing a global health concern that demands attention. Researchers have discovered that chikungunya can exploit the body’s own immune cells as a “Trojan horse” to cross protective barriers and reach the brain. By infecting monocytes—key defense cells—the virus uses infl

Detecting dengue-infected mosquitoes usually means capturing them and running lab tests—a slow, resource-heavy process that doesn’t reflect what’s happening in real time out in the environment. But new research from CSIRO Health & Biosecurity and Deakin University suggests there may be another way to spot infected mosquitoes: by simply watching how they fly. Using infrared cameras, researchers recorded the 3D movements of Aedes aegypti , the primary dengue vector. They then t

Mosquitoes may carry the virus, but humans carry the responsibility. When it comes to arboviruses like dengue, Zika, and chikungunya, the conversation often centers on the mosquito. Yet, the real challenge lies in our habits, our perception of risk, and our willingness to act. Studies show that while awareness is widespread, action often falls short—and that gap is fueling the spread of these diseases. A UNICEF study in Brazil revealed that people know standing water is a ri

Stagnant water on a street in Havana, ideal conditions for the proliferation of the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which transmits dengue fever and chikungunya (Photo: Ernesto Mastrascusa/EFE) Cuba is facing a severe public health emergency as mosquito-borne arboviruses, particularly dengue and chikungunya, continue to spread. The country’s national director of epidemiology has reported that approximately 47,125 people are currently hospitalized with dengue or chikungunya. He has a

Chikungunya, a mosquito-borne viral disease once thought to be limited to tropical regions, is now making its way across continents. Transmitted mainly by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, the virus has triggered outbreaks in several European countries and the UK, hit record levels in China, and was recently confirmed as locally transmitted in the United States, specifically in New York State. Here at Aedes Mosquito Killers, we’ve been closely following this trend. The recent repor

Recent research suggests that genetic ancestry can affect how the human body responds to the dengue virus. Conducted by scientists from the University of Pittsburgh, UPMC, and the Aggeu Magalhães Institute, the study found that individuals with African lineage tend to exhibit a more controlled inflammatory response, while those with European ancestry show stronger reactions, potentially increasing the risk of complications. By analyzing human skin samples, researchers observe

A groundbreaking study led by the Butantan Institute, in collaboration with international universities, has introduced a new system for naming dengue virus strains. This initiative aims to improve global monitoring of viral mutations and enhance communication among laboratories and public health authorities worldwide. Published in PLOS Biology , the research involved institutions such as Fiocruz, Yale, and Oxford. The new classification system has been in use since September

Richard Bouhet/Agence France-Presse — Getty Images New York State has reported its first locally transmitted case of chikungunya, with no recent history of international travel. The patient, a Long Island resident, is believed to have contracted the virus from a mosquito bite within the region. The case was first reported by The New York Times on October 15, 2025. Experts suggest the virus-carrying mosquito may have arrived in a passenger’s luggage or onboard an aircraft. An

In a surprising turn of events, the United Kingdom has officially recorded the presence of two mosquito species known for transmitting dengue, Zika, chikungunya, and yellow fever—including the notorious Aedes aegypti . This marks a major shift in the global distribution of these diseases, which were previously confined to tropical and subtropical regions. The discovery has raised concerns among health experts about the growing reach of arboviruses into temperate climates. Acc

Dengue is no longer a concern limited to tropical countries—it has evolved into a silent global crisis. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 3.6 billion people currently live in areas at risk of dengue virus transmission, representing nearly half of the world’s population . In an article published by Jornal O Globo , infectious disease specialist Raquel Stucchi explains that “ the spread of dengue to regions previously considered free of the disease, suc

It’s not uncommon for homemade remedies and natural tips to circulate among family, friends, and social media as ways to combat dengue. Among these, the use of yam as an ally in fighting the disease has gained attention. But where does this reputation come from, and what is actually known about it? Yam is a tuber rich in nutrients such as B-complex vitamins, vitamin C, iron, and fiber. In traditional medicine, it’s associated with “detoxifying” properties—meaning it’s believe

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has issued a clear warning: Europe is entering a new phase in its public health landscape. Mosquito-borne diseases, once considered rare on the continent, are now emerging with increasing frequency and intensity. In 2025, Europe recorded 27 chikungunya outbreaks , marking a historic high. The spread of Aedes albopictus , the mosquito responsible for transmitting chikungunya, has expanded rapidly. It is now present