National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases (NCEZID)

Who we are

The Division of Vector-Borne Diseases (DVBD) is a national and international leader in researching, preventing, and controlling viruses and bacteria spread by vectors like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas. Our staff includes entomologists, epidemiologists, molecular biologists, laboratorians, microbiologists, physicians, veterinarians, virologists, and zoologists.

What are vector-borne diseases?

Almost everyone has been bitten by a mosquito, tick, or flea. Vectors are mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas that spread pathogens. A person who gets bitten by a vector and gets sick has a vector-borne disease. Some vector-borne diseases, like plague, have been around for thousands of years. Others, like Heartland virus disease and Bourbon virus disease, have been discovered recently.

More

• 3x: Vector-borne disease cases tripled in the US from 2004 to 2016.
• 9: Nine new pathogens spread by mosquitoes and ticks have been discovered or introduced since 2004.
• 8 in 10: About 80% of vector control organizations lack critical prevention and control capacities.
• 5: Five Regional Centers of Excellence are working to prevent and respond to emerging vector-borne diseases across the US.
• Everyone can protect themselves from mosquito, tick, and flea bites.
• Learn about vector-borne diseases in your state or territory.
• Learn more in the May 2018 issue of Vital Signs.

• Before you go, do your homework: Travelers’ Health
• Search for yellow fever vaccination clinics.
• Don’t forget to bring proof of vaccination on your trip.
• Learn more about yellow fever.