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Disease Vectors

Definition

Disease vectors are living organisms that can transmit infectious diseases between humans or from animals to humans. They can include mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, flies, and other insects and arthropods.

Analogy

Imagine disease vectors as tiny delivery drivers for germs. Just like how delivery drivers transport packages from one place to another, disease vectors carry harmful pathogens and deliver them through bites or contact with their hosts.

Related terms

Zoonotic Diseases: Zoonotic diseases are infectious diseases that can be transmitted between animals and humans.

Vector-borne Diseases: Vector-borne diseases are illnesses that are transmitted through the bite of infected arthropods like mosquitoes or ticks.

Malaria: Malaria is a life-threatening mosquito-borne disease caused by parasites that infect red blood cells.

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.