I'm not even slightly qualified to speak on the subject, but in the absence of anyone else commenting yet, may I suggest reading this article discussing, at least in part, the historical impact of malaria. The references in the article are also well worth a read as some go into much more specific detail re: ancient Rome, Greece, etc.

Just to be clear, in case someone doesn't see the connection, the reason that living near mosquito laden waters would be problematic for a population is that they spread malaria.

Hopefully someone else can comment!

Pharaoh Pepi II Neferkare used naked slaves smeared with honey to keep flies away.