Question

Which of the following diseases is spread by mosquitoes where the causative agent is not a virus?
A. Dengue fever
B. Yellow fever
C. Filariasis
D. Chicken pox

Answer 1

Vector borne diseases are havoc on mankind. One of the most common vectors for many diseases are mosquitoes. Mosquitoes normally act as vectors for various deadly diseases and serve as the secondary hosts in the life cycles of parasitic pathogens. Common genus of mosquitoes that act as vectors are: Anopheles , Aedes , Culex etc. Each acts as vectors for different diseases.

Complete answer:
Option: A - Dengue fever is normally caused by a viral pathogen – Dengue virus spread by the Aedes mosquito vector.
Thus, this option is not correct.
Option: B - Yellow fever is also a viral disease for which the Aedes mosquito does the work of a vector.
Thus, this option is also not correct.
Option: C - Filariasis or Elephantiasis is caused by a filarial roundworm and is often spread by blood sucking insects like mosquitoes.
Thus, this is the correct option as it is a disease spread by mosquitoes and caused by a non-viral pathogen.
Option: D - Chicken pox is a viral disease caused by pox virus. It is a very contagious disease spread by contact fluid filled blisters of infected individuals.
Thus, this option is also not correct.

Hence, Option C. Filariasis is the correct answer.

Note:
Filariasis is a parasitic infection caused by one of three nematode species: Wuchereria bancrofti , Brugia malayi , or Brugia timori. The tiny worms are transmitted to humans by mosquitoes and can survive in the lymphatic system for up to $5 - 7$ years in both children and adults. The majority of those who are afflicted are asymptomatic. However, some people may develop huge lymph edema known as elephant legs.