Vector-borne diseases
Vector-borne diseases
Vector-borne diseases (pronunciation: /ˈvɛktər bɔːrn diːˈziːz/) are illnesses caused by pathogens and parasites in human populations. They are most commonly transmitted through the bites of blood-sucking insects, such as mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas.
Etymology
The term "vector-borne disease" is derived from the word "vector," which in epidemiology refers to any agent (person, animal, or microorganism) that carries and transmits an infectious pathogen into another living organism. "Borne" is the past participle of the verb "bear," which means to carry.
Types of Vector-borne diseases
There are numerous types of vector-borne diseases. Some of the most common include:
- Malaria: A disease caused by a parasite that is transmitted to humans through the bite of the female Anopheles mosquito.
- Lyme disease: An infectious disease caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, which is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected black-legged ticks.
- Dengue fever: A mosquito-borne tropical disease caused by the dengue virus, which is transmitted by the Aedes mosquito.
- Zika virus: A disease caused by the Zika virus, which is primarily transmitted by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito.
Prevention and Control
Prevention and control of vector-borne diseases primarily involve protecting individuals from vector bites and controlling the vector population. This can be achieved through the use of insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and maintaining clean surroundings to prevent the breeding of vectors.
See Also
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