Mosquitoes can carry dangerous parasites – a 9-centimeter worm was removed from a woman's neck in Volyn
The second case of dirofilariasis in 2026—a parasitic disease transmitted through bites of infected mosquitoes—has been registered in the Volyn region. This was reported by the Volyn Regional Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
A 37-year-old woman living in the Kovel district sought medical help due to a subcutaneous formation in the neck area and a sensation of movement under the skin. During surgery, a helminth measuring 8.7 cm in length was removed.
In the parasitology laboratory of the Volyn Regional Center for Disease Control and Prevention, it was established that the pathogen is Dirofilaria repens. The patient underwent outpatient treatment, and her condition is assessed as satisfactory.
During the epidemiological investigation, it was determined that possible infection factors could be living near a body of water, staying in places with a large number of mosquitoes, as well as keeping a dog. Dogs are the main natural reservoir of the dirofilariasis pathogen.
What is known about the disease
Dirofilariasis is a zoonotic parasitic disease. The source of infection for mosquitoes is most often infected dogs, less commonly cats and wild carnivores. Humans become infected accidentally after being bitten by an infected mosquito.
Main symptoms include subcutaneous nodules, itching, swelling, redness, as well as a sensation of movement or migration of the parasite. The most commonly affected areas are the skin of the face, eyelids, neck, and limbs.
Prevention recommendations
Experts recommend:
- using repellents and other mosquito protection measures;
- installing mosquito nets on windows and doors;
- avoiding staying near bodies of water during mosquito activity periods;
- regularly conducting preventive treatment of pets against parasites;
- preventing the accumulation of containers with standing water on household plots, as these are mosquito breeding sites.
If after a mosquito bite you notice nodules, swelling, itching, or a sensation of movement under the skin, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. Self-removal attempts or self-treatment can cause complications. With timely medical attention, the treatment prognosis is favorable.
Reference
Dirofilariasis is registered annually in Volyn. From 2020 to 2024, 9 cases were recorded in the region, 3 cases in 2025, and already 2 cases since the beginning of 2026 (in the Kovel and Kamin-Kashyrskyi districts). All cases are associated with local transmission of the pathogen. Possible reasons for this trend include climate change, an increase in the mosquito population, and active migration of people and domestic animals.
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