Division of Vector-Borne Diseases (DVBD)

About the Division of Vector-Borne Diseases

Who we are

The Division of Vector-Borne Diseases (DVBD) is a national and international leader in researching, preventing, and controlling viruses and bacteria spread by vectors including mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas. Our staff includes entomologists, epidemiologists, molecular biologists, laboratorians, microbiologists, physicians, veterinarians, virologists, and zoologists.

What are vector-borne diseases?

Almost everyone has been bitten by a mosquito, tick, or flea. Vectors are mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas that spread pathogens. A person who gets bitten by a vector and gets sick has a vector-borne disease. Some vector-borne diseases, like plague, have been around for thousands of years. Others, like Heartland virus disease and Bourbon virus disease, have been discovered recently.

Mosquito, tick, and flea bites can make you sick
A couple with a young girl sitting on a blanket on the grass. The man is applying insect repellant on his arm.
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