Pregnant women is the high-risk population on mosquito infestation: A systematic review

With globalization, mosquito infestation has become a serious public health concern, impacting human health. Identifying populations at greatest risk from mosquito infestation is crucial for guiding targeted protection strategies and optimizing resource allocation. However, current research on the impact of mosquito infestation on human health is fragmented and lacks systematic synthesis, making it difficult to identify populations at greatest risk. This review aimed to synthesize and compare evidence on the vulnerability of different populations to mosquito infestation. Based on the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, this study searched databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane between 2004 and 2025. Inclusion criteria were peer-reviewed studies examining the impact, risk, and burden of mosquito infestation. Of 187 initial records, 32 studies met the inclusion criteria. The results of this review indicate that pregnant women are at high risk of mosquito infestation. The reason is their vulnerability and susceptibility to mosquito-borne diseases. Moreover, compared to other populations, the physical and psychological health effects of the Zika virus on pregnant women and their fetuses continue after birth. Microcephaly can have a lasting impact on children and their caregivers. Furthermore, due to climate change, mosquito infestation in Southeast Asia is significantly higher than in other regions. Pregnant women in this region are the most at-risk population. The results of this study highlight the need for public health systems to prioritize mosquito control strategies targeting pregnant women in Southeast Asia.