The Gulf South VECTOR initiative continues to build momentum across the Gulf states, expanding its reach and deepening its impact. With the support of a growing network of regional partners, the program has now trained more than 33,000 professionals and 6,500 students in vectors and vector-borne disease prevention, an important milestone that reflects both the dedication of our team and the increasing need for a skilled, informed workforce.
Expanding Training to Meet Regional Needs
Over several months, Gulf South VECTOR has broadened its training portfolio to meet the evolving needs of the region. New offerings now support a wide range of stakeholders, including pest management and animal welfare professionals, environmental health specialists, medical providers, students, and community partners. These expanded opportunities ensure that individuals across multiple sectors have access to high-quality, evidence-based training that strengthens surveillance, response, and prevention efforts.
Welcoming New Collaborators to Advance Public Health
We are also excited to welcome several new collaborators whose expertise enhances our capacity to serve the Gulf South. Their contributions bring fresh perspectives, innovative approaches, and expanded resources that will help us continue building a resilient, well-prepared regional workforce. As we look ahead, Gulf South VECTOR remains committed to advancing public health, fostering collaboration, and supporting the professionals who work every day to protect our communities from vector-borne threats.
CDC's Vector Week 2026
CDC’s Division of Vector-Borne Diseases (DVBD) will host Vector Week 2026 from March 11–13, 2026, at the Lory Student Center at Colorado State University (CSU) in Fort Collins, Colorado. This meeting brings together grantees and national partners, including ELC Programs, the Emerging Infections Program (EIP), the Centers of Excellence (COEs), the Vector-Borne Training and Evaluation Centers (TECs), and other workforce development initiatives, to share the latest updates in vector‑borne disease research, surveillance, and training. To expand access, the CDC will offer virtual participation, allowing attendees to join expert-led sessions and discussions from any location. Registration is open to all interested participants; simply visit the Vector Week registration page, select the virtual attendance option, and complete the short form. A confirmation email with login details and session access information will follow.
Registration Link
