World Mosquito Day: Why Protection Matters More Than Ever

World Mosquito Day (20th August) marks the discovery that mosquitoes transmit malaria - one of the deadliest diseases in history. Over 125 years later, mosquitoes remain the world’s most dangerous animal, responsible for spreading illnesses that affect millions of people every year.

And while many think of mosquito-borne diseases as a problem “elsewhere,” the truth is that climate change and shifting weather patterns are bringing risks closer to home. This summer’s storms and humid conditions have already created a mosquito surge across the UK - a reminder that protection matters everywhere.

The world’s most common mosquito-borne diseases
Mosquitoes spread more than just irritation - they carry a wide range of illnesses, some of which you can read more about on our insect information page:

• Malaria - still one of the biggest killers globally, with over 200 million cases a year.
• Dengue fever - spreading fast, with recent outbreaks even in Europe.
• Zika virus - linked to severe birth defects, still a threat in tropical regions.
• Chikungunya - causes severe joint pain and has been reported in dozens of countries.
• Yellow fever - preventable with vaccination, but mosquitoes remain the only way it spreads.

Even when not transmitting disease, mosquito bites can cause allergic reactions, infections from scratching, and - most of all - ruined holidays, sleepless nights, and spoiled summers.

Fast Facts: Why Mosquitoes Matter

🌍 Mosquitoes are the world’s deadliest animal, responsible for over 1 million deaths each year.
💉 Malaria: over 200 million cases annually.
🦠 Dengue fever: spreading to new regions, including parts of Europe.
👶 Zika virus: linked to birth defects, still active in many countries.
🕒 Mosquitoes can breed in as little as a teaspoon of water.
🏡 UK households are reporting a sharp rise in garden mosquito bites this summer.
✅ Protection is simple: repellents with PMD (like incognito®) camouflage you from all mosquitoes.

👉 Shop the full incognito® range here

How to avoid bites
While repellents are essential, there are practical steps everyone can take to reduce their risk. Our C.L.O.A.K. guide sets out the golden rules:

• Cover up exposed skin
• Light colours deter mosquitoes
• Odours matter — avoid strong scents
• Avoid dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active
• Keep repellent topped up

Together, these habits form the best line of defence against bites, whether you’re at home in the UK or travelling abroad.

Why incognito® is the solution
At incognito®, we’ve spent years creating insect repellents that combine maximum effectiveness with natural ingredients. Our range is powered by PMD (derived from lemon eucalyptus) - clinically tested and proven to repel mosquitoes, including those that can carry malaria, dengue, Zika, and more.

✅ Clinically tested - 100% protection for at least 4 hours, good protection up to 8 hours.
✅ Natural & sustainable - safe for the whole family, with packaging designed to minimise impact.
✅ Trusted worldwide - used at home in the UK, on holidays abroad, and in high-risk destinations.

By camouflaging your scent, incognito® makes you invisible to mosquitoes. Whether you’re in your garden or travelling overseas, we give you peace of mind that you’re protected.

Conclusion
This World Mosquito Day is a reminder that these tiny insects are more than just a nuisance - they’re a global health challenge. But with the right protection, you don’t have to let mosquitoes dictate your summer.

They’re out for blood.
Don’t let it be yours. 💚
Be incognito®.

👉 Shop the full incognito® range here