Vectorborne and Zoonotic Diseases

Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever

Leptospirosis

Today, humans suffer from illnesses not only brought by abnormalities on body systems and through acquired infectious diseases that are environmental related. Zoonotic related diseases also emerge whereby these are diseases transmitted between animals and humans. More so, arthropods like mosquitoes, fleas and ticks transmit vector borne diseases that are in constant vigilance in the Philippines.

Leptospirosis is caused by the Leptospira bacteria. The bacteria is transmitted through wound entry when in contact with flood waters, vegetation, moist soil contaminated with the urine of infected animals, especially rats.

Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever is an acute infectious disease manifested initially with fever. Aedes aegypti, the transmitter of the disease, is a day-biting mosquito which lays eggs in clear and stagnant water found in flower vases, cans, rain barrels, old rubber tires, etc. The adult mosquitoes rest in dark places of the house.

Filariasis commonly known as “elephantiasis” is a disease caused by a parasite transmitted by mosquito. An individual who acquired this type of disease may experience the following:

• Pain and swelling of the breast, vagina, scrotum, legs and

      arms
    • Fever
    • Cough
    • Chills
    • Wheezing

Malaria is a disease caused by protozoan parasites called Plasmodium. It is usually transmitted through the bite of an infected female Anopheles mosquito. Malaria may also be transmitted through the following:

    Transfusing blood that is positive for malaria parasites
    Sharing of IV needles (especially among IV drug users)
    Transplacenta (transfer of malaria parasites form an infected

mother to her unborn child)

Filariasis

Malaria

Lice

Lice are parasitic insects that can be found on people's heads, and bodies, including the pubic area. Human lice survive by feeding on human blood. Lice is transmitted person to person contact.