What are mosquitoes?
Mosquitos are common, flying insects that live in most parts of the world. Over 3,500 types of mosquitos can be found worldwide.
Not all mosquitos bite people or animals. When mosquitos bite people, the most common reactions to the bite are itching and swelling.
Some mosquitos can be vectors. A vector is an animal, insect, or tick that spreads pathogens (germs) to people and animals. The germs (viruses and parasites) that mosquitoes spread can make you sick. Some mosquitos bite, but do not spread germs. These types of mosquitos are called nuisance mosquitos. To learn more about mosquitos click here.