What is the classification of tularemia based on its transmission method?

Tularemia is classified as vector-borne primarily due to its transmission through the bites of infected arthropods, such as ticks and deer flies, as well as through handling infected animals. The bacterium that causes tularemia, Francisella tularensis, can be transmitted to humans through direct contact with infected animals, inhalation of contaminated aerosols, and through bites from infected vectors, which is the defining characteristic of vector-borne diseases. While some methods of transmission such as direct contact or airborne exist, they are not the primary modes for tularemia, making the classification as vector-borne the most accurate within this context.