What if your recent mosquito bite carried more than just the discomfort of being an itchy nuisance? What if it posed a significant risk of transmitting a deadly disease like malaria, yellow fever or Zika virus?
According to the World Health Organization, vector-borne diseases are responsible for causing over 700,000 deaths annually. Malaria alone caused approximately 249,000 cases worldwide in 2022, with 233,000 of those cases occurring in Africa.
The number of active mosquito-borne diseases in the United States is significantly lower, partly due to the country’s topography. Another major contributing factor is the robust American public health infrastructure and the implementation of vector control measures recommended by medical entomologists.
Today, we’re exploring the importance of medical entomologists working alongside public health officials to prepare for and prevent the spread of vector-borne diseases in the U.S.
What Are Vector-Borne Diseases?
A vector-borne disease is an infectious disease that is spread by vectors. But what are vectors in the context of entomology?
Vectors are living organisms, like mosquitoes or ticks, that transmit infections from one human or animal to another. It’s important to note, however, that with over 3,500 species of species of mosquitoes on the planet, not every mosquito in the world is disease-carrying. An insect becomes a vector only after ingesting a pathogen while feeding on its host.
For example, a disease-free mosquito might feed off of a human that’s carrying the malaria parasite. Once the mosquito ingests the parasite, it multiplies inside the mosquito. Then, when the vector feeds on another human, it unknowingly transmits that pathogen through its saliva.
What Is a Medical Entomologist?
Medical entomologists specialize in the study of insects on a microscopic level. Their particular focus revolves around how insects impact human health, especially when those insects happen to be vectors for diseases.
Medical entomologists have several indispensable responsibilities that help to control and prevent the spread of vector-borne diseases, including:
- Researching and identifying vector species.
- Studying vector biology and behaviors.
- Assessing the risk of disease transmission in different areas of the world.
- Developing effective strategies for monitoring and controlling the potential spread of disease.
Integrating Medical Entomology Into Public Health Strategies
Without the help of public health officials, medical entomologists wouldn’t be able to implement their extensively researched vector control measures. However, by working alongside public health sector officials, they can elaborate on their findings and collaborate on strategies that aim to reduce the risk of disease transmission in different regions. These collaborative efforts include:
- Using insecticides
Working with public health officials, medical entomologists can determine the safest and most effective insecticides for controlling disease vectors.
- Modifying the habitats of current potential vectors
By studying different regions, medical entomologists can identify and alter the environmental conditions that vectors rely on to breed and survive, such as removing stagnant water sources where vectors often reproduce.
- Creating public education campaigns
Perhaps one of the most crucial ways that medical entomologists and public health officials work together involves educating the public on ways to prevent the spread of vector-borne diseases. From creating educational materials to conducting outreach events, these campaigns aim to empower individuals with the information they need to be proactive in their approach to reducing their risk of contracting vector-borne diseases.
Earn a Graduate Credential in Medical Entomology at UF
With an increase in vector-borne illnesses like malaria in recent years, there’s higher demand for medical entomologists. The University of Florida proudly offers two online programs crafted to provide the unique skillset needed to start your career in medical entomology, including:
Graduate Certificate in Medical Entomology
This 15-credit online program focuses on courses rooted in advanced medical and veterinary entomology, as well as mosquito biology. You can use the remaining two credits to choose an elective that aligns with your future career path, from tropical entomology to exotic species — and more!
Master’s Degree in Entomology and Nematology
We also provide an online 30-credit medical entomology master’s degree option, offering a more comprehensive understanding of entomology. In addition to core courses in entomology, you’ll also complete the curriculum from our online Graduate Certificate in Medical Entomology. Upon graduation, you’ll earn two prestigious graduate credentials:
- Master of Science in Entomology and Nematology
- Graduate Certificate in Medical Entomology
Whether you want to become a biologist, a medical entomologist or pursue a different career in entomology, our programs can enhance your skillset for a variety of new roles in the industry. Browse our program offerings and apply today!
Sources:
https://www.statista.com/statistics/790174/estimated-share-of-total-malaria-cases-by-country/
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/vector-borne-diseases
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK585164/
