RESULTS OF INTERVIEWS OF VECTOR-BORNE DISEASE PROFESSIONALS IN THE MIDWEST UNITED STATES

Area of Science:

• Environmental science
• Public health
• Entomology

Background:

• Mosquitoes and ticks transmit diseases, posing public health risks.
• Vector surveillance and control programs are essential for mitigating these risks.
• Professionals in the upper Midwest conduct vital work in this sector.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the scope of work performed by vector control professionals in the upper Midwest.
• To identify successes and challenges encountered in their operations.
• To understand the perceptions of their work by the public and policymakers.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative interviews were conducted with 100 professionals.
• Interviews focused on September 2024 to January 2026.
• Participants were primarily located in the upper Midwest of the United States.

Main Results:

• Collaboration within and between agencies is a significant strength.
• A major challenge identified is the lack of public and political understanding and appreciation.
• This underappreciation impacts vector surveillance, vector control, and public outreach efforts.

Conclusions:

• While inter-agency collaboration is a strength, external recognition remains a critical issue.
• Enhanced public and political engagement is needed to support vector control initiatives.
• Addressing the knowledge gap is crucial for the sustained success of vector management programs.