Vector-borne Diseases

Vector-borne diseases infographic

What are vector-borne diseases?

Vectors can carry diseases that can affect both animals and humans. Such diseases are called vector-borne diseases.

Vectors:

  • Wild animals
  • Pets
  • Livestock
  • Sand flies
  • Ticks
  • Midges
  • Mosquitoes 

Can affect:

  • Humans
  • Wild animals
  • Pets
  • Livestock

Global perspective

Some factors that contribute to the spread of vectors and the diseases they carry from tropical areas to more temperate zones, such as Europe.

  • Travel
  • Modern agriculture practices
  • Climate change
  • Global trade
  • Animal movement

EFSA's work

Monitoring the possible presence of vectors in the EU.

Culex pipiens is a species of blood-feeding mosquito widespread in Europe. Recorded presence in 18 out of 28 EU Member States.

To predict where this mosquito is likely to be, EFSA analyses:

  • Temperature
  • Humidity and rainfall
  • Habitat
  • Recorded presence by Member States

Monitoring vectors and vector-borne diseases can help inform decisions to prevent the spread of these diseases and reduce their impact on public health and the EU economy.

  • Higher health care costs
  • Culling of animals
  • Closure of farms
  • Trade bans

Scientific cooperation

EFSA’s work on vector-borne diseases in cooperation with the other partners will help increase the understanding of these diseases and improve the EU response capacity to new outbreaks. 

Jointly, EFSA and ECDC collect data on vectors and vector-borne diseases and analyse their spread in the European Union.

EFSA is the keystone of EU risk assessment regarding food and feed safety. In close collaboration with national authorities and in open consultation with its stakeholders, EFSA provides independent scientific advice and clear communication on existing and emerging risks.