Understanding how insects and other arthropods contribute to the spread of disease is essential to modern healthcare and public health. Textbook of Medical Entomology – For Allied Health Science Students by Dr. V. Athithan provides a systematic and practical introduction to the field, bringing together fundamental concepts and contemporary developments in medical entomology.
Designed for students of Medical Entomology, Medical Laboratory Technology, Pharmacy, Nursing, and Public Health Sciences, the textbook explores the taxonomy and biology of medically important insects and arthropods, vector ecology, disease transmission cycles, surveillance, and integrated vector-control measures. It also introduces practical vector survey methods, emerging and re-emerging tropical diseases, and modern molecular diagnostic techniques used for pathogen identification.
By combining theoretical foundations with practical insights, the book serves as a valuable academic resource for undergraduate and postgraduate students, educators, researchers, laboratory professionals, and public health practitioners. Its focus on both vector biology and the wider public-health significance of vector-borne diseases makes it relevant to learners and professionals seeking to strengthen their understanding of disease prevention and management.
Dr. V. Athithan brings substantial academic and research experience to the subject. A former Scientist-B in Entomology (Project) at ICMR-Vector Control Research Centre, Puducherry, he currently works as a Medical Laboratory Technologist in the Department of Biochemistry at JIPMER, Puducherry. His research interests span medical entomology, plant biology, biomedical sciences, and histopathology, with contributions to scientific publications and multidisciplinary research.
Textbook of Medical Entomology is intended to support a deeper understanding of vectors, vector-borne diseases, diagnostics, and their significance in healthcare and public health.