What is the relationship between urbanization and vector-borne disease emergence?

The relationship between urbanization and the emergence of vector-borne diseases is significant, as urbanization typically leads to an increase in risks for these diseases. As cities grow, they alter the environment in ways that can foster conditions favorable to vectors, such as mosquitoes and rodents.

In densely populated urban areas, factors like inadequate sanitation, poor water management, and increased human interaction with natural environments can create breeding grounds for vectors. For instance, standing water from construction sites, water storage practices, or poor drainage can facilitate the proliferation of mosquitoes. Additionally, urban heat islands may enhance mosquito survival and breeding, contributing to the transmission of diseases like dengue fever, Zika virus, or West Nile virus.

Moreover, urban areas often attract large populations, which can facilitate the rapid spread of vector-borne diseases due to high levels of human movement and interaction. Urban socio-economic disparities may also contribute to unequal access to healthcare and resources for vector control, increasing vulnerability among certain populations.

The other options suggest that urban environments either reduce risks or have no impact on vector populations, which overlooks the complexities of urban ecosystems and the role they play in the dynamics of disease transmission. Thus, the connection between urbanization and vector-borne diseases is characterized by increased risk owing to environmental