Summary

In this study session, you have learned that:

1. A vector is a non-human carrier of communicable diseases. Arthropods such as insects, and mammals such as rats, play major roles.
2. The public health importance of vectors is related to disease transmission, damage to food and property, and acting as a barrier to development.
3. There are mechanical and biological methods of disease transmission by vectors.
4. Insects are identified by their body structure and the presence of three pairs of legs. Insects go through three or four stages to complete their life cycles.
5. Rats are vectors that inhabit and breed inside a house. They are involved in the transmission of diseases, destroying materials and damaging food. There are different methods to control them.
6. Vectors can be managed using simple control methods such as sanitation and also physical, biological and chemical methods of control. An integrated approach using sanitation in combination with others is the best option in order to effectively reduce the vector population.
7. Planning activities for vector management on an annual basis is one major task of the health practitioner.