Common VECTOR-BORNE Diseases 

Many infectious illnesses are vector-borne, meaning that transmission of the disease is indirect — through an insect or animal that transmits the infectious agent from some reservoir in nature to a human host. Table 6 lists some of the most common vector-borne diseases and how to protect yourself against them.

Key Facts36

  • Vector-borne diseases account for more than 17 percent of all infectious diseases, causing more than 700,000 deaths annually.
  • More than 3.9 billion people in more than 129 countries are at risk of contracting dengue, and an estimated 96 million cases and 40,000 deaths occur each year.
  • Malaria causes more than 400,000 deaths every year globally,
    most of them children younger than 5 years old.
  • Other diseases such as Chagas disease, leishmaniasis and schistosomiasis affect hundreds of millions of people worldwide.
  • Many of these diseases are preventable through informed
    protective measures.

Protective Measures
Against Mosquito Bites

  • Avoid endemic areas.
  • Protect yourself.
    — Cover your skin.
    — Use repellents and permethrin on clothing.
    — Carry netting with you where insects are prevalent or are a hazard.
  • Stay in air-conditioned and screened spaces.
  • Get a vaccine if available.
  • Use prophylactic medicine.
  • Use netting if staying in housing without air conditioning.
  • Seek medical help if you are ill.

Protect yourself.
— Cover your skin.
— Use repellents and permethrin on clothing.
— Carry netting with you where insects are prevalent or are a hazard.

Table 6
Common
vector-borne
diseases

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