Vector-Borne Diseases

Mammals, birds, arthropods, and insects can all serve as potential vectors for transmitting diseases to humans. Animals or insects that transmit diseases are commonly referred to as carrier animals or vector insects.

Carrier animals or insects acquire pathogens from infected animals or humans and then transmit the infection to humans either directly or through an intermediate source. Transmission can occur through bites, stings, tissue infections, or indirectly through the transmission of pathogens. Mosquitoes and ticks are the most notable vectors due to their highly effective mode of transmission through blood-sucking.

The table below presents examples of animal or insect vectors along with the diseases they can transmit.

Diseases Carried by Animals or Insects