Vector-borne Diseases: Mosquitoes, Ticks, and Fleas
- Original Publication:
- June 26, 2026
- Declarations of Conflicts of Interest:
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- Laura Buford, MSN-IPC, RN, CIC, LSSYB declares no conflicts of interest.
- Acknowledgments:
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This chapter replaces the 2014 West Nile Virus Chapter. Special thanks to Michael A. Pentella, PhD, CIC, D (ABMM)Director, Bureau of Laboratory Sciences at the William A. Hinton State Laboratory Institute for writing the West Nile Chapter, and to Laura Buford, MSN-IPC, RN, CIC, LSSYB, for crafting the Vector-borne Illness chapter.
Abstract
Mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas are common blood-feeding pests. Many species of mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas are also vectors—living organisms that can transmit pathogens between humans or between animals and humans. In humans, vector-borne diseases associated with mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas can range from mild infections to serious, even life-threatening illnesses. Preventive measures to stop the spread of these diseases are an important public health priority in the United States and globally. Many effective prevention efforts are relatively simple, such as pet care, home and yard maintenance, choosing the correct clothing, and appropriate use of insect repellents and insecticides. Additionally, large-scale initiatives to address issues such as the effects of climate change and inadequate sanitation are needed.