Fighting Vector-Borne Diseases Through Education and Research

Vector-borne diseases (those transmitted by arthropods like ticks, mosquitoes, and fleas) are on the rise in the United States, tripling over the past 13 years. To combat this growing public health threat, the CDC Division of Vector-Borne Diseases has sponsored collaborative agreements to form a series of Training and Education Centers (TECs) focused on reducing the burden of vector-borne diseases in the United States. The VectorED Network is one of those TECs.

The VBDEN aims to increase education, training, and research on vector-borne diseases across the Ohio River Valley and the Eastern US. The network will leverage existing programs like the Cooperative Extension Service and pest management associations to reach key audiences like public health workers, veterinarians, pest control operators, and college students in relevant fields.

A major goal is expanding vector-borne disease curriculum and training opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students. This will increase the future workforce prepared to address vector-borne diseases. Fellowships will provide hands-on experience for students in public health agencies and vector control programs. Each education and training opportunity will be approached with a health equity lens.

The VectorED Network also plans to evaluate and improve current vector-borne disease surveillance and prevention methods used by the public, many of which lack strong evidence. For example, the team will test the effectiveness of tick tubes, a do-it-yourself treatment homeowners can apply. Evaluating tools like this can lead to better recommendations for residential tick control.

Partnerships across universities, government agencies, and organizations will allow the VectorED Network to maximize its reach and impact. The team believes that connecting and expanding existing networks is the most efficient way to advance vector-borne disease education and training.

Vectors have huge impacts on public health, agriculture, and wildlife. Through targeted education, practical research, and strong collaborations, the VectorED Network aims to equip the eastern US with the knowledge and capacity to reduce vector-borne diseases. This innovative initiative deserves support to protect people's health and make progress against a growing threat.