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Insecticide-treated cattle for tsetse control: the power and the problems
J W Hargrove1, S Omolo, J S Msalilwa
1Tsetse Control, Harare, Zimbabwe. jhargrove@rttcp.org.zw
Medical and Veterinary Entomology
|June 29, 2000
Summary
Livestock owner participation is key for trypanosomiasis control. Insecticide-treated cattle show success in some areas, but effectiveness varies based on factors like area coverage and habitat suitability.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Entomology
- Parasitology
- Livestock Management
Background:
- Trypanosomiasis control strategies are shifting towards greater involvement and financial input from livestock owners.
- Reduced scale of operations may limit the application of methods like aerial spraying and sterile insect techniques.
- Increased reliance on trypanocidal drugs and bait methods for tsetse control is anticipated, especially if drug resistance emerges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the effectiveness of insecticide-treated cattle in two Tanzanian tsetse control campaigns.
- To understand the reasons behind the varying success rates of tsetse control methods.
- To inform future strategies for trypanosomiasis disease management.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of tsetse and trypanosomiasis data from Kagera and Tanga Regions in Tanzania.
- Evaluation of widespread cattle dipping (Kagera Region) versus aggressive pyrethroid use with odour-baited targets (Mkwaja Ranch, Tanga Region).
- Comparison of trypanosomiasis incidence and tsetse fly populations before and after intervention.
Main Results:
- In Kagera Region, widespread cattle dipping led to a significant decline in trypanosomiasis cases and deaths, with tsetse nearly eliminated on some ranches.
- On Mkwaja Ranch, aggressive pyrethroid use and odour-baited targets did not yield similar dramatic results, with tsetse and trypanosomiasis remaining prevalent.
- Differences in outcomes are attributed to smaller treated area, higher re-invasion risk, and more suitable tsetse habitats at Mkwaja.
Conclusions:
- Insecticide-treated cattle can be an effective tool for trypanosomiasis control when implemented comprehensively.
- Factors such as area coverage, potential for re-invasion, and local habitat significantly influence the success of tsetse control operations.
- Further research into the dynamics of insecticide-treated cattle use is crucial for predicting the outcomes of control programs.