An organism that carries and transmits pathogens to humans or other animals is called a vector. Vectors are living agents that transmit infectious pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, or parasites to another living organism. Most commonly, vectors are blood-sucking arthropods like mosquitoes, ticks, flies, fleas, and lice. They transmit pathogens either by biting and injecting the pathogen directly into the host's bloodstream or by other contact means. For example, mosquitoes are vectors for malaria, dengue, Zika virus, and other diseases. Ticks can transmit Lyme disease and other bacterial infections. Vectors play a crucial role in the spread of many infectious diseases among humans and animals. Thus, the term you are looking for is vector. This definition and examples are supported by epidemiological sources and health organizations.
