Here in America, we view this tiny insect, not as a killer, but more as a nuisance. Oh, how that statement proves false. We slap it and go "ewww," but we live in a land where its bite doesn't mean life or death. Inhabitants of other countries fight to survive its disease carrying and spreading existence.

It's hard to imagine that this tiny killer, the mosquito, kills more people every year than every other any animal. To bring awareness to the mosquito threat, Bill Gates has made this Mosquito Week. If sharks have a week, he said, mosquitos most definitely should.

At 725,000 people a year, mosquito-related deaths deserves attention. Thanks to people like Gates, research and prevention continue to reduce the death toll. By delivering tests, medicine and nets, malaria, for example dropped from 130,000 cases in 2000 to 2,000 in 2012. That's more than a 98 percent decrease. Other mosquito spread disease include West Nile virus and dengue fever. The science happening to stop the spread of dengue in particular is fascinating. I'll let Gates and his research friends explain more about how they infect mosquitos that then infected other mosquitoes.

Not only do these people use cutting-edge science, but they reach out to the community and involve them. They want to save lives, which includes altered mosquitos and education. Through my limited time in developing countries and classroom teachings, I understand the importance of the whole picture. Plans need a comprehensive approach. I loved that testing for malaria in Cambodian villages included tests, questions, pay and meals. No one wants poked and vaccinated by force. A positive experience and seen livelihood will spur others to get tested, which in the end will lead to eradication. Someday.

That day will be great! I speak from experience that no one wants malaria. Gates shares a story he heard, and I shared my own back on a previous Worldly Wednesday. Along with me catching malaria, my dad dealt with West Nile a handful of years ago. I guess, like father, like daughter when it comes to mosquito diseases.

I leave you with a story about how we are fighting a smart mosquito battle. These videos are worth the watch. They are short and to the point. That Gates man has a good team.