Vector-borne disease

Vector-borne diseases are illnesses caused by pathogens and parasites in human populations. These diseases are transmitted by vectors, which are living organisms that can transmit infectious pathogens between humans, or from animals to humans. Many of these vectors are blood-feeding arthropods, such as mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas.

Common Vector-borne Diseases

Some of the most well-known vector-borne diseases include:

• Malaria: Transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes.
• Dengue fever: Transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes.
• Lyme disease: Transmitted by Ixodes ticks.
• Zika virus: Transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes.
• Chikungunya: Transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes.
• Yellow fever: Transmitted by Aedes and Haemagogus mosquitoes.
• West Nile virus: Transmitted by Culex mosquitoes.

Vectors

Vectors are typically arthropods, including:

• Mosquitoes
• Ticks
• Fleas
• Sandflies
• Triatomine bugs

Prevention and Control

Preventing vector-borne diseases involves controlling the vectors and protecting individuals from bites. Common strategies include:

• Using insect repellents.
• Wearing protective clothing.
• Installing mosquito nets.
• Implementing vector control programs, such as insecticide spraying and eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis and treatment of vector-borne diseases vary depending on the specific disease. Common diagnostic methods include:

• Blood tests
• PCR tests
• Serological tests

Treatment may involve:

• Antibiotics for bacterial infections.
• Antiviral drugs for viral infections.
• Antimalarial drugs for malaria.

Related Pages

• Infectious disease
• Pathogen
• Vector (epidemiology)
• Mosquito
• Tick
• Flea
• Malaria
• Dengue fever
• Lyme disease
• Zika virus
• Chikungunya
• Yellow fever
• West Nile virus