Medical entomology

Study of insect impacts on human health

Aedes albopictus

A U.S. Navy medical entomologist identifying insects

The discipline of medical entomology, or public health entomology, and also veterinary entomology is focused upon insects and arthropods that impact human health. Veterinary entomology is included in this category, because many animal diseases can "jump species" and become a human health threat, for example, bovine encephalitis. Medical entomology also includes scientific research on the behavior, ecology, and epidemiology of arthropod disease vectors, and involves a tremendous outreach to the public, including local and state officials and other stake holders in the interest of public safety.

Public health entomology has seen a huge surge in interest since 2005, due to the resurgence of the bed bug, Cimex lectularius.

Insects of medical importance

There are many insects (and other arthropods) that affect human health. These arthropods include Diptera, Hemiptera, Phthiraptera, and Siphonaptera. They can parasitize, bite, sting, cause allergic reactions, and/or vector disease to humans. It can be impossible to know the full impact that insects and other arthropods have on human health. Medical entomologists worldwide are working to combat the known effects in order to improve public health.