How do temperature and humidity levels affect mosquito-borne disease outbreaks?

The relationship between temperature, humidity, and mosquito-borne disease outbreaks is well established within the field of entomology and public health. Warmer temperatures tend to create a more suitable environment for mosquitoes to thrive. Mosquitoes are ectothermic, meaning their body temperature is regulated by the environment. Higher temperatures increase their metabolic rate, which can enhance their breeding rates. Additionally, warmer conditions allow for faster development from egg to adult mosquito.

Humidity plays a critical role as well; it affects both mosquito survival and the replication of viruses within their bodies. In humid conditions, mosquitoes are less likely to desiccate and die, thus prolonging their life span and increasing their chances of transmitting diseases. Furthermore, certain viruses, such as West Nile Virus and Zika Virus, have higher replication rates at warmer temperatures, enhancing the likelihood of outbreaks.

This understanding highlights why warmer and more humid conditions can indeed lead to more frequent and severe outbreaks of mosquito-borne diseases, making option A the correct answer.