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By: Alkali K and Ezrah Abba.
1Professor, Department of Biological Science, Yobe State University, Nigeria.
2Professor, Department of Zoology and Wildlife Ecology, Gombe State University, Nigeria.
Mosquitoes are well-known carriers of various parasites and viruses that can lead to several serious diseases in humans. Illnesses such as malaria, dengue fever, epidemic encephalitis B, and epidemic typhus are among the major health threats transmitted by these insects. Because effective vaccines are lacking for many mosquito-borne viruses (arboviruses), controlling the mosquito population remains the primary method for preventing these diseases. Unfortunately, the increasing resistance of mosquitoes to conventional control methods poses a significant hurdle. As a result, there’s a growing need for environmentally friendly alternatives in mosquito control. One promising solution lies in the use of nanoparticles. Thanks to their tiny size and large surface area, nanoparticles have unique features — including strong biological activity, enhanced chemical stability, and the ability to release substances in a controlled manner. These traits make nanotechnology an exciting area of research for developing more effective and sustainable mosquito control methods, especially when green (eco-conscious) synthesis techniques are used. In particular, nanoparticles synthesized using natural, eco-friendly processes have shown strong potential in acting as mosquito-killing agents. These nanomaterials may offer advantages over traditional insecticides, such as improved efficacy and reduced environmental impact. This review explores the potential of green-synthesized nanoparticles in mosquito control, focusing on their types, how they are produced, and how toxic they are to mosquito vectors.
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Citation:
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