Key Facets for the Elimination of Vector-Borne Diseases Filariasis, Leishmaniasis, and Malaria

ACS Infect Dis. 2025 Jan 9. doi: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.4c00431. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

Vector-borne diseases are caused by microbes transmitted to humans through vectors such as mosquitoes, ticks, flies, and other arthropods. Three vector-borne diseases, filariasis, leishmaniasis, and malaria, are significant parasitic diseases which are responsible for long-term morbidity and mortality affecting millions globally. These diseases exhibit several similarities in transmission, health impacts, and the challenges faced in their control and prevention. By identifying these commonalities and fostering cooperation among disease control programs, we can strengthen our efforts to combat them and hence enhance the health of at-risk populations. This review summarizes the key points associated with the epidemiology, transmission dynamics, and therapeutic regimes for each disease, presenting a holistic overview of these three eliminable diseases.

Keywords: Vector-borne diseases; disease control; filariasis; leishmaniasis; malaria.

Publication types

  • Review