Does use of domestic insecticides undermine public health control strategies?

Abstract

Vector-borne diseases (VBD), particularly dengue and malaria, pose a growing threat to human health worldwide. While insecticides remain the cornerstone of vector control programmes, their efficacy is being compromised by increasing insecticide resistance in mosquito populations, leading to control failures that have significant epidemiological and socioeconomic implications. Current research has predominantly examined resistance development in the context of public health interventions and agricultural applications. However, the contribution of domestic insecticide use to resistance evolution in VBD-endemic regions remains inadequately characterised. Evidence indicates that household insecticide utilisation is extensive, with approximately 60% of residents in endemic areas regularly employing domestic insecticidal products for personal protection. This viewpoint highlights how the poorly regulated household insecticide market may significantly contribute to resistance development. Therefore, understanding the impact of domestic insecticide products and usage patterns is urgently needed to preserve the efficacy of vector control campaigns and protect public health outcomes.