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Visualizing Efficacy of Pesticides Against Disease Vector Mosquitoes in the Field
Published on: March 16, 2019
Control of phlebotomine sandflies
1Veterinary Laboratories Agency, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik EH26 0PZ, UK.
Medical and Veterinary Entomology
|April 12, 2003
Summary
Phlebotomine sandflies transmit zoonotic diseases like leishmaniasis. Current control focuses on adult sandflies using insecticides, as immature stages and breeding sites remain largely unknown.
Area of Science:
- Medical Entomology
- Veterinary Entomology
- Public Health Entomology
Background:
- Phlebotomine sandflies transmit significant zoonotic diseases globally, including leishmaniasis, arboviruses, and bartonelloses.
- Control of these vectors is crucial for human and animal health in over 80 countries.
- Existing control strategies primarily target adult sandflies due to unknown breeding sites.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize current knowledge on sandfly susceptibility to various insecticides.
- To discuss the constraints and advantages of different control compounds, formulations, and delivery methods.
- To provide insights for effective sandfly control strategies under diverse environmental conditions.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on sandfly control measures and insecticide resistance.
- Analysis of data on insecticide efficacy, resistance reports, and tolerance.
- Discussion of various application methods including residual spraying, space-spraying, and personal protection.
Main Results:
- Insecticide resistance in sandflies is reported for specific species (e.g., P. papatasi, P. argentipes, S. shorttii) against DDT in India, with broader DDT tolerance noted elsewhere.
- Adult control methods include pyrethroids for residual spraying, space sprays, treated nets, and personal repellents/insecticides.
- Laboratory evaluations show potential for biological and chemical agents against immature stages, but field application is limited.
Conclusions:
- Current sandfly control predominantly relies on adulticidal measures, mainly using insecticides like pyrethroids.
- Limited knowledge of breeding sites hinders the development of targeted control for immature sandflies.
- Further research into insecticide efficacy, resistance management, and novel control methods is essential for sustainable vector control.
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