Vector-borne diseases

Definition

Vector-borne diseases are illnesses caused by pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, or parasites that are transmitted to humans through vectors like mosquitoes, ticks, or fleas. These diseases include malaria, dengue fever, Lyme disease, and many others.

Related terms

Malaria: Malaria is a life-threatening mosquito-borne disease caused by parasites that are transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes.

Zika virus:

Zika virus is a mosquito-borne viral infection that can cause birth defects in babies born to infected mothers and has been linked to neurological disorders in adults.

Tick-borne encephalitis: Tick-borne encephalitis is a viral infection transmitted through tick bites that can cause inflammation of the brain and spinal cord.