Vector-borne diseases — A/L Biology

A. Vector-Borne Diseases Definition: Diseases transmitted to humans or animals by living organisms (vectors) that carry pathogens from one host to another. Explanation: Vector-borne diseases are illnesses caused by pathogens like viruses, bacteria, or parasites that are transmitted by vectors such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, or flies. These vectors act as intermediate hosts that carry the disease-causing organisms from infected individuals to healthy ones. The transmission occurs when the vector bites or comes into contact with a person, injecting the pathogen into their bloodstream. Understanding vector biology, life cycles, and transmission patterns is crucial for disease prevention and control. Think of it as: Think of vectors like delivery trucks that transport dangerous packages (pathogens) from one location (infected person) to another (healthy person) without being affected by the contents themselves. Real-world application: In Sri Lanka, dengue fever and filariasis are major vector-borne diseases transmitted by mosquitoes.