Vector control

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Vector Control

Vector control (pronounced: /ˈvɛktər kənˈtroʊl/) is a method of limiting or eradicating the mammals, birds, insects or other arthropods (collectively called "vectors") which transmit disease pathogens. The most frequent type of vector control is mosquito control using a variety of strategies.

Etymology

The term "vector" (pronounced: /ˈvɛktər/) comes from the Latin vector, meaning "carrier". In medical terms, it refers to any organism that carries and transmits an infectious pathogen into another living organism. "Control" (pronounced: /kənˈtroʊl/) comes from the Middle French contreroller, meaning "to check, verify, regulate".

Related Terms

  • Disease vector: An organism, typically a biting insect or tick, that transmits a disease or parasite from one animal or plant to another.
  • Pathogen: A bacterium, virus, or other microorganism that can cause disease.
  • Mosquito control: The process of actively managing the population of mosquitoes to reduce their damage to human health, economies, and enjoyment of mosquito-ridden areas.
  • Insecticide: A substance used to kill insects.
  • Pesticide: A substance used for destroying insects or other organisms harmful to cultivated plants or to animals.

Vector Control Methods

Vector control strategies can be divided into three broad categories:

  • Environmental management: This involves modifying vector habitats to prevent or reduce their population.
  • Chemical control: This involves using insecticides or pesticides to kill vectors.
  • Biological control: This involves using natural enemies of vectors, such as predators, parasites, pathogens, and competitors, to reduce vector populations.

Importance of Vector Control

Vector control is crucial in the prevention of diseases that are spread by vectors, such as malaria, dengue fever, and Zika virus. It is also important in preventing the spread of vector-borne diseases among populations.

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