What disease is associated with the Culex mosquito genus?

The Culex mosquito genus is primarily associated with the transmission of several diseases, one of which is sewage-related encephalitis, often referred to as West Nile virus encephalitis. Culex mosquitoes are known vectors for viruses that can lead to neurological diseases. The Culex pipiens species, in particular, is well-documented for its role in spreading the West Nile virus, which can cause severe infection and inflammation of the brain, leading to encephalitis.

In contrast, malaria is specifically transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes, while dengue fever is primarily associated with Aedes mosquitoes. Psittacosis is a disease caused by bacteria found in birds and is not transmitted by mosquitoes at all, but rather through direct contact with infected birds or their droppings. Therefore, the association of sewage-related encephalitis with the Culex mosquito underscores their importance in public health as vectors of certain viral diseases.