An estimated 80% of the world’s population is at risk of one or more vector-borne diseases. Mosquitoes, flies, bugs and other vectors transmit viruses, parasites and bacteria that infect millions of people globally. They cause deadly and debilitating diseases such as malaria, dengue, Chikungunya, yellow fever, Zika virus disease, leishmaniases and Chagas disease.

Vector-borne diseases thrive in conditions of poverty, and mortality rates are often disproportionately high in poorer populations. Those who survive can be left permanently disabled or disfigured, compounding their disadvantage. Taken together, these diseases exact an immense toll on economies and restrict both rural and urban development.