Tropical and Vectors-Borne Diseases: Insights into Biology, Transmission, and Control Measures

Tropical and subtropical areas are flourishing environments for many unique pathogens. This chapter discusses vectors of medical importance and the vector-borne diseases of the highest burden in morbidity and mortality globally. Vectors types, characteristics, lifecycle, distribution, diseases they transmit, and their prevention and control strategies are overviewed. The discussion extends to cover key medically important vectors, including mosquitoes, ticks, flies, and fleas, highlighting their roles in disease transmission. Further, vector-borne diseases of high significance are explained in detail from a public health perspective, with the historical perspective of vectors and their transmitted illnesses. Insight of the current climate change, globalization, urbanization, and ease of international travel which contributed to the spread, expansion, and resurge of many vector-borne diseases; this chapter underscores the significance and burden of vector-borne diseases and the critical need for integrated control strategies that combine biological insights with environmental management.