Role of Vectors in Disease Transmission and National Vector-Borne Disease Control Program

Vectors play a crucial role in the transmission of various infectious diseases. They can be categorized into biological and mechanical vectors based on their mode of transmission.

Biological Transmission

Biological vectors are organisms in which the pathogen undergoes part of its life cycle before being transmitted to a host. Examples include:

• Mosquitoes transmitting malaria (Plasmodium spp.)
• Ticks spreading Lyme disease (Borrelia burgdorferi)
• Sandflies carrying Leishmaniasis (Leishmania spp.)

Mechanical Transmission

Mechanical vectors, such as houseflies, spread pathogens passively without their multiplication or development within the vector. Examples include:

• Flies transmitting bacterial infections like cholera (Vibrio cholerae)
• Cockroaches carrying intestinal parasites

National Vector-Borne Disease Control Program

India’s National Vector-Borne Disease Control Program (NVBDCP) is a strategic initiative aimed at reducing the burden of vector-borne diseases. Key approaches include:

• Surveillance and epidemiological studies
• Public health education on preventive measures
• Vector control through insecticide-treated nets and environmental management
• Prompt diagnosis and treatment services