[Arthropods with vectorial interest in spanish public health]

Rubén Bueno Marí1, Josefa Moreno Marí, M Teresa Oltra Moscardó

  • 1Laboratorio de Entomología y Control de Plagas, Instituto Cavanilles de Biodiversidad y Biología Evolutiva, Universitat de València, Paterna (Valencia). ruben.bueno@uv.es

Insights

Arthropods transmit 15 communicable diseases in Spain, necessitating vector biology knowledge for control. Global surveillance is crucial for predicting and preventing emerging vector-borne diseases to protect public health.

Area of Science:

  • * Focuses on medical entomology and public health surveillance.
  • * Integrates knowledge of arthropod vectors and communicable diseases.

Context:

  • * Fifteen of Spain's 31 obligatory communicable diseases are arthropod-borne.
  • * Arthropods transmit numerous bacterial, fungal, viral, and protozoan pathogens.
  • * Globalization increases the risk of allochthonous (introduced) vector-borne diseases.

Purpose:

  • * To review Spanish arthropod fauna with known or potential vector capabilities.
  • * To analyze the current status of significant vector-borne diseases in Spain.
  • * To identify factors contributing to disease resurgence or intensification.

Summary:

  • * Highlights the role of arthropods as vectors for numerous pathogens in Spain.
  • * Emphasizes the need for comprehensive knowledge of vector biology for effective disease control.
  • * Discusses the importance of considering introduced diseases and their potential spread.

Impact:

  • * Aims to enhance the predictive capacity of the National Epidemiological Surveillance Network.
  • * Supports strengthening Spanish public health strategies against vector-borne diseases.
  • * Provides a foundation for developing targeted and efficient vector control measures.

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