vectors

Vectors are living organisms (usually insects) that carry disease-causing germs from an infected host to a healthy person.

• A vector acts like a carrier or “vehicle” for pathogens, helping them move from one place to another.
• Many vectors spread disease when they bite (like mosquitoes) or when they contaminate food (like houseflies landing on uncovered food).
• Mosquitoes are common vectors:
  • Malaria spreads through mosquitoes carrying a protozoan parasite.
  • Dengue spreads through mosquitoes carrying a virus.
• A useful way to remember it: a vector is like a courier delivering a “packet” (the pathogen) to a new person.
• Controlling vectors helps prevent disease: remove stagnant water, use mosquito nets/repellents, and keep food covered to stop flies from spreading germs.

Vectors matter because stopping the vector often breaks the chain of infection, even if the pathogen still exists somewhere.