How would you expect global warming to affect the spread of vector-borne diseases?

• A. Many vectors of disease are insects which thrive in warmer temperatures, thus increasing prevalence of disease.
• B. Global warming increases the geographical range of vector-borne diseases that thrive in warm climates.
• C. Global warming lengthens the “warm” seasons when vector-borne diseases are most prevalent.
• D. All of the above.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that vector-borne diseases are transmitted by vectors such as insects (e.g., mosquitoes, ticks) that are sensitive to environmental conditions, especially temperature.
2. Recognize that warmer temperatures due to global warming can enhance the survival, reproduction, and biting rates of these insect vectors, leading to increased prevalence of the diseases they carry.
3. Consider that global warming can expand the geographical range of these vectors, allowing them to inhabit areas that were previously too cold, thus spreading diseases to new regions.
4. Note that warmer temperatures can also lengthen the duration of warm seasons, extending the period during which vectors are active and diseases can be transmitted.
5. Combine these points to conclude that global warming affects vector-borne diseases by increasing their prevalence, expanding their range, and prolonging the transmission season, which supports the answer 'All of the above.'