vector-borne transmission

Vector-borne transmission occurs when a disease-causing organism, such as a virus or parasite, is transferred to a human through the bite or contact with an infected vector—an organism like a mosquito, tick, or fly. These vectors acquire the pathogen from an infected person or animal and then carry it to others, often without becoming sick themselves. This process is common in diseases like malaria, dengue, and Lyme disease. Effectively, vectors serve as intermediaries, enabling pathogens to move between hosts across distances that would be difficult for the disease to cover on its own.