Malaria and Zika are both diseases spread by mosquitos. Malaria is deadly, and people have been fighting it for centuries. Zika, though, emerged more recently. Although symptoms of a Zika infection are usually milder than those of a malaria infection, Zika is associated with birth defects in the babies of infected mothers. Malaria and Zika are spread by two distinct types of mosquitos: malaria by the mosquito, and Zika by the mosquito. This means that different prevention techniques are recommended. Because bite at night, using mosquito netting over beds can help people avoid malaria. , however, bite during the day. In areas where Zika is a concern, experts recommend using insect repellents and covering the skin with clothing.