Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 23, 2026
10:49
Visualizing Efficacy of Pesticides Against Disease Vector Mosquitoes in the Field
Published on: March 16, 2019
A community empowerment strategy embedded in a routine dengue vector control programme: a cluster randomised
Marta Castro1, Lizet Sánchez, Dennis Pérez
1Epidemiology Division, Institute of Tropical Medicine Pedro Kouri, Autopista Novia del Mediodía, Km. 6, La Lisa, AP 601, Marianao 13, Havana City, Cuba. martac@ipk.sld.cu
Summary
Community empowerment significantly improved dengue vector control in Cuba. This strategy enhanced community involvement and knowledge, leading to a 53% reduction in Aedes aegypti infestation, demonstrating its effectiveness over routine programs.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Vector-Borne Disease Control
- Community-Based Interventions
Background:
- Vertically organized dengue vector control programs face sustainability challenges.
- There is a growing need to shift focus towards community-based strategies for effective dengue management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a community empowerment strategy integrated with routine dengue vector control.
- To assess the impact of the intervention on community participation, knowledge, practices, and Aedes aegypti infestation levels.
Main Methods:
- A cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted in La Lisa, Havana City, Cuba.
- 16 intervention clusters received a community empowerment strategy (organization, surveillance, capacity building, community work) alongside routine control.
- 16 control clusters continued with routine activities only.
Main Results:
- Community participation scores increased significantly in intervention clusters (1.4 to 3.4).
- Knowledge of breeding sites improved by 52.8% in intervention vs. 27.5% in control clusters.
- Adequate household control practices increased by 36.2% in intervention clusters.
- Breteau indices (BI) were 53% lower in intervention clusters compared to control clusters over the study period.
Conclusions:
- Community empowerment strategies enhance routine dengue vector control efforts.
- Increased community involvement and knowledge are key drivers of improved Aedes aegypti control.
- This integrated approach offers a more sustainable and effective model for dengue prevention.
