Division of Vector-Borne Diseases (DVBD)
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.
Dr. Rochelle Walensky, CDC Director, gave the Keynote Addressexternal icon at Vector Week 2022. This virtual, grantee meeting provided a venue for sharing vector-borne disease information to Epidemiology and Laboratory Capacity funding recipients, vector control organizations, and state and local health departments. Over 780 attendees participated in the three-day meeting, January 25-27.
- Everyone can protect themselves from mosquito, tick, and flea bites.
- Read about DVBD’s top accomplishments in 2021
- Learn about vector-borne diseases in your state or territory.