Vector control for malaria : current tools and emerging challenges

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Vector-Borne Diseases

Background:

• Malaria remains a major global health threat, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.
• Vector control efforts significantly reduced malaria cases but progress has stalled.
• Current control relies on insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) and indoor residual spraying (IRS), facing challenges like insecticide resistance and vector behavior changes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current malaria vector control tools recommended for endemic countries.
• To examine the primary challenges in sustaining effective malaria control programs.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the latest World Health Organization malaria guidelines from January 2025.
• Conducted a targeted search of peer-reviewed literature.

Main Results:

• Insecticide resistance, mosquito behavior adaptation, and invasive species like An. stephensi threaten current tools.
• Global trends including climate change and urbanization are altering malaria transmission dynamics.
• Optimizing coverage, quality, and access to ITNs and IRS is paramount, alongside addressing operational constraints.

Conclusions:

• Malaria programs require adaptation through enhanced surveillance, innovation, and data-driven strategies.
• Sustained investment is critical for addressing funding gaps and adapting interventions.
• Adapting to evolving epidemiological and operational contexts is essential for future malaria control.