Integrated Vector Management on Mosquito Control During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

—The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is now a major health crisis. In July 2020, there were 14 million cases and more than 600.000 deaths worldwide, creating great economic and social disruptions. Even though the pandemic is currently the main focus, plenty of other infectious diseases keep increasing. The World Health Organization (WHO) has previously highlighted the importance of preventing, detecting, and treating malaria amidst the current pandemic. A similar approach should be adopted for management of other arboviral diseases such as dengue, Zika, chikungunya, and yellow fever as was published in the Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO)’s interim guideline regarding Aedes aegypti mosquito control during the COVID-19 pandemic. Public health interventions that were initiated to prevent COVID-19 spread immensely affect vector monitoring and control. A dengue or other vector borne disease (VBD) epidemic in addition to the current COVID-19 situation will have severe consequences for at risk populations. Cocirculation of dengue and COVID-19 may result in many unwanted outcomes such as co-infections; delayed diagnosis, management, and mitigation efforts; overwhelmed healthcare systems; less reported cases; less monitoring and control interventions; and exacerbation of social gaps. Clearly, the lockdown compromises vector control efforts, especially social mobilization campaigns and preventive insecticide spraying. Failure in implementing maximum vector control efforts may end up in reduced overall effectivity and increases risk of VBD circulation. The health community and policy makers should develop proactive efforts and allocate adequate resources in order to prevent and manage dengue and other VBDs in the current COVID-19 pandemic.