Combatting Aedes Mosquitoes and Viral Diseases in India

Aedes mosquitoes IN India: STRATEGIES TO CONTROL

What are Aedes-Borne viral diseases?

Aedes mosquitoes transmit dengue, Zika, and chikungunya. These diseases affect both productivity and public health in India. Unlike malaria mosquitoes, Aedes are day-biting and easily adapt to human environments.

Why are Traditional Measures Ineffective?

Outdoor fumigation, vaporizers, and bed nets are less effective since Aedes bite indoors during the day and adapt to artificial light. They also develop resistance to common household chemicals, making traditional methods less reliable.

What is the First Line of Defense?

✔ Use loose clothing that covers most of the body.
✔ Apply skin repellents such as DEET, picaridin, or OLE/PMD.
✔ Protect vulnerable groups like children and pregnant women.

What Role Do Community Actions Play?

Community-driven measures such as removing stagnant water in containers, coolers, and discarded plastics significantly reduce breeding sites. Local leaders, health workers, and volunteers are vital in spreading awareness and guiding households.

What are the New Innovative Strategies?

• Use of Wolbachia bacteria to prevent mosquitoes from transmitting viruses.
• Deployment of spatial repellents like jute strips coated with insecticides.
• Promoting affordable repellents in rural and urban markets.
• Public education campaigns on indoor plant water, roof tanks, and waste disposal.

How Can India Strengthen its Response?

• Combine top-down policies with bottom-up community participation.
• Ensure wide access to globally tested repellents like DEET.
• Integrate dengue and vector control into public health programs with regular monitoring.