Journal of Tropical Diseases & Public Health

Vector-Borne Diseases

Vector-Borne Diseases (VBDs) are infections transmitted to humans and animals through the bite of infected arthropod vectors, such as mosquitoes, ticks, sandflies, and fleas. These diseases are prevalent in many regions worldwide, particularly in tropical and subtropical areas.

Importance:

• Global Health Impact: Vector-borne diseases account for significant morbidity and mortality globally, affecting millions of people each year.
• Economic Burden: The impact of these diseases extends beyond health, contributing to economic losses due to healthcare costs, lost productivity, and reduced quality of life.
• Climate Sensitivity: VBDs are influenced by environmental factors, such as climate change, which can alter the distribution and behavior of vectors, potentially leading to increased incidence and outbreaks.

Types of Vector-Borne Diseases:

1. Mosquito-Borne Diseases:
   • Malaria: Caused by Plasmodium parasites transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes.
   • Dengue Fever: Caused by the dengue virus, primarily transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes.
   • Zika Virus: A viral infection transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, with potential complications in pregnant women.
   • Yellow Fever: A viral disease transmitted by Aedes and Haemagogus mosquitoes, preventable through vaccination.

2. Tick-Borne Diseases:
   • Lyme Disease: Caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted by Ixodes ticks.
   • Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever: Caused by Rickettsia rickettsii and transmitted by the American dog tick and other species.
   • Anaplasmosis: Caused by Anaplasma phagocytophilum, transmitted by Ixodes ticks.

3. Flea-Borne Diseases:
   • Plague: Caused by Yersinia pestis, transmitted by fleas that infest rodents.
   • Murine Typhus: Caused by Rickettsia typhi, transmitted by fleas and associated with rat populations.

4. Sandfly-Borne Diseases:
   • Leishmaniasis: Caused by Leishmania parasites, transmitted by the bite of infected sandflies.

Transmission:

• VBDs are transmitted through the bite of an infected vector that has acquired the pathogen from a host (e.g., human, animal).
• The life cycle of the vector and pathogen can influence transmission dynamics, including seasonal patterns and geographic distribution.

Prevention and Control:

• Vector Control: Implementing measures to reduce vector populations, such as insecticide spraying, larviciding, and environmental management to eliminate breeding sites.
• Personal Protection: Encouraging the use of insect repellents, protective clothing, and bed nets to reduce exposure to vectors.
• Vaccination: Promoting vaccination for preventable diseases like yellow fever.
• Public Awareness: Educating communities about prevention strategies and the importance of seeking medical attention for symptomatic infections.