More than half the world’s population is at risk of diseases carried by mosquitoes, flies and other insects, the World Health Organisation says.
This year WHO is highlighting the serious and increasing threat of vector-borne diseases with the slogan “small bite, big threat” for World Health Day 2014.
The day is being observed throughout the world with the slogan “Small bite, big threat.”
“Every year, more than one million people die from vector-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue and yellow fever,” a press release said.
About 1.5b people in the South-East Asia region are in the risk of malaria, 2.24m of dengue and 147m in threat of Kala-azar, it added.
“A global health agenda that gives higher priority to vector control could save many lives and avert much suffering,” WHO Director General Margaret Chan said.
“No one in the 21st century should die from the bite of a mosquito, a sandfly, a blackfly or a tick,” she added to her message in the presser.
Vector-borne diseases affect the poorest population, particularly where there is a lack of access to adequate housing, safe drinking water and sanitation.
Malnourished people and those with weakened immunity are especially susceptible.
On World Health Day 2014, WHO called for a renewed focus on vector control and better provision of safe water, sanitation and hygene.
