What is a "vector"?

A vector refers to an organism that carries and transmits an infectious agent from one host to another. Vectors can be of different types, including insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas, as well as rodents and other animals. These organisms play a crucial role in the spread of diseases, particularly those caused by viruses, bacteria, and parasites. Some of the diseases that are transmitted by vectors include malaria, dengue fever, Lyme disease, and bubonic plague. Vectors can transmit the infectious agent through biting, feeding, or contact with contaminated material. Controlling vectors is an important strategy for preventing the spread of infectious diseases.