The importance of vector control for the control and elimination of vector-borne diseases

Vector-borne diseases (VBDs) such as malaria, dengue, and leishmaniasis exert a huge burden of morbidity and mortality worldwide, particularly affecting the poorest of the poor. The principal method by which these diseases are controlled is through vector control, which has a long and distinguished history. Vector control, to a greater extent than drugs or vaccines, has been responsible for shrinking the map of many VBDs. Here, we describe the history of vector control programmes worldwide from the late 1800s to date. Pre 1940, vector control relied on a thorough understanding of vector ecology and epidemiology, and implementation of environmental management tailored to the ecology and behaviour of local…

• DF
  Directorate for Biological Sciences
• MR
  Medical Research Council

  Award: MR/M007383/1
• BA
  Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council

  Awards: BB/R00532X/1, BB/R00532X/1, BB/L019035/1
• NE
  Natural Environment Research Council

  Award: BB/R00532X/1