BIOL5535 (Expanding Frontiers: Vector-Borne Diseases) course reviews and ratings at Northeastern (NEU). Compare professors with RateMyProfessor reviews.
Explores the biology of vectors and vector-borne infectious diseases. The World Health Organization estimates that about one-fifth of all infectious diseases are caused by vector-borne diseases. Vectors discussed include mosquitoes; ticks; Plasmodium; trypanosomes; Lyme disease-causing bacteria; and arboviruses such as dengue, yellow fever, West Nile, and Zika. Examines the development, metabolism, behavior, and symbiotic relationships—including the vector-host-pathogen relationships—through a student-generated literature review and a research proposal. Thoroughly reviews treatments and prevention strategies ranging from vaccination, pre- and postexposure prophylaxis, antimicrobial intervention, management of sequelae, and vector-control strategies. Discusses each topic from the perspective of historical and modern research.
Data updated October 2026.