Battling a Stealthy Foe: Lessons from Global Efforts to Control Anopheles stephensi

The World Health Organization's report, "Surveillance and Control of Anopheles stephensi: Country Experiences," highlights the urgent need to address the spread of An. stephensi, a major malaria vector. The report shares insights from India, Iran, and Sri Lanka, emphasizing enhanced surveillance, targeted vector control, and international collaboration.

In the face of rising threats to malaria control, the World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted the urgent need to combat Anopheles stephensi, a mosquito species adept at spreading malaria in urban areas. Detected in Africa in 2012, this resilient vector poses a significant challenge to malaria eradication efforts. WHO's recent initiative emphasizes collaboration, enhanced surveillance, information sharing, and targeted research to curb the spread of An. stephensi.

Urban Nightmares: India's Struggle and Strategy

Urban areas in India have faced severe outbreaks of malaria due to An. stephensi, often linked to construction sites where stagnant water provides breeding grounds for mosquitoes. The Urban Malaria Scheme, launched in 1971, focuses on managing larval sources through larvicides, larvivorous fish, and enforcing by-laws to prevent mosquito proliferation.

Mumbai has taken legislative measures to control mosquito breeding. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) enforces fines for non-compliance with vector control regulations and monitors construction sites to ensure adherence. Additionally, research and collaboration between the National Center for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) have been pivotal in guiding control efforts.

Iran's Integrated Approach

The Islamic Republic of Iran's fight against malaria emphasizes operational research and infrastructure improvements. Local universities have played a crucial role in addressing location-specific information gaps, while increased access to electricity and water has reduced mosquito breeding sites and human-vector contact.

Despite the emergence of Aedes aegypti, which diverted resources from malaria control, Iran has maintained its focus on An. stephensi. The country's integrated approach to vector control, combining research, surveillance, and community engagement, offers valuable lessons for other regions facing similar challenges.

Sri Lanka's Swift Response

Sri Lanka's Anti Malaria Campaign (AMC) exemplifies the effectiveness of routine entomological surveillance in detecting invasive species and following the detection of An. stephensi in 2016, the AMC intensified surveillance and implemented targeted vector control measures, such as introducing larvivorous fish and chemical larvicides.

The swift response and collaboration with government and international partners helped contain the spread of An. stephensi. The AMC's efforts highlight the importance of maintaining a dedicated entomological workforce and having the infrastructure to support rapid response initiatives.

The battle against Anopheles stephensi requires a multifaceted approach, combining enhanced surveillance, targeted vector control, legislative measures, and international collaboration. Documenting and sharing country experiences are vital to developing effective strategies that can be adapted to different contexts. The WHO's initiative to curb the spread of An. stephensi in Africa underscores the global commitment to eliminating malaria and ensuring healthier communities worldwide.