Vector-borne diseases in man: a general review

The author traces the historical growth of the idea that animals, especially insects, can act as vectors of human diseases. The development of insecticides of great efficacy raised hopes that such insect-borne diseases might be rapidly and easily controlled, but the appearance of insecticide resistance has, in many instances, proved a stumbling-block. Moreover, the discovery of animal reservoirs of vector-borne infections has shown the situation to be more complex than was at first thought. Before control measures can be placed on a sound scientific basis, comprehensive research is needed on insect physiology, toxicology, and vector behaviour and ecology. The author stresses the importance of making a detailed study of the ecological relations of all creatures in a particular environment before applying measures that may upset the balance.