Mosquitoes and ticks that spread germs (pathogens) are called vectors. A person who gets bitten by a vector and gets sick could have a vector-borne disease (VBD). Infected mosquitoes and ticks transmit many types of vector-borne diseases, some of which are acquired locally in New Jersey and others that occur among returning travelers. The best defense against VBDs is to take steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes and ticks.
The Communicable Disease Service has staff dedicated to the monitoring, control and prevention of vector-borne diseases.
Specific activities performed by vector-borne illness staff include:
- Surveillance of vector-borne diseases
- Identifying risk factors
- Monitoring geographic trends
- Providing technical assistance and training
- Educating the public and healthcare partners