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What Are The Chances Of Contracting Dengue From A Mosquito Bite?

Posted on Mon, 21 Aug 2023

Question: Hi Doc,

I was bitten by mosquito during the day time, just below the ankle, around 9.30 am. The mosquito looked to belong to aedes family, had white dots on the legs.
What is the probability of randomly catching dengue due to such events.?
Just a curious question

Answered by Dr. Kampana (32 minutes later)

Brief Answer:

Almost no.

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

Statistically, the probability of one of those bites being from an infected mosquito is very less and almost nil.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Take care

Regards,
Dr Kampana, General & Family Physician

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana

Follow up: Dr. Kampana (6 minutes later)

Thanks for clearing the concern.
Also, generally to categorize, is it correct to categorize mosquitos with white legs, as those capable of carrying the dengue and yellow fever virus?

Also, for contracting dengue , the mosquitos need to be infected right? A single bite of the mosquito is enough to cause a dengue infection?

Answered by Dr. Kampana (14 minutes later)

Brief Answer:

As explained below

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

Yes, you are right, those mosquitos have white markings on legs. Mosquitos need to be infected before it bites you. One bite is not enough to cause dengue normally. If your immunity is low even a single bite is enough.

Hope I have answered your query.

Take care

Regards,
Dr Kampana, General & Family Physician

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana