Integrated vector management: A critical strategy for combating vector-borne diseases in South Sudan

Emmanuel Chanda, John M. Govere, Michael B. Macdonald, Richard L. Lako, Ubydul Haque, Samson P. Baba, Abraham Mnzava

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

13 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: Integrated vector management (IVM) based vector control is encouraged by the World Health Organization (WHO). However, operational experience with the IVM strategy has mostly come from countries with relatively well-established health systems and with malaria control focused programmes. Little is known about deployment of IVM for combating multiple vector-borne diseases in post-emergency settings, where delivery structures are less developed or absent. This manuscript reports on the feasibility of operational IVM for combating vector-borne diseases in South Sudan. Case description. A methodical review of published and unpublished documents on vector-borne diseases for South Sudan was conducted via systematic literature search of online electronic databases, Google Scholar, PubMed and WHO, using a combination of search terms. Additional, non-peer reviewed literature was examined for information related to the subject. Discussion. South Sudan is among the heartlands of vector-borne diseases in the world, characterized by enormous infrastructure, human and financial resource constraints and a weak health system against an increasing number of refugees, returnees and internally displaced people. The presence of a multiplicity of vector-borne diseases in this post-conflict situation presents a unique opportunity to explore the potential of a rational IVM strategy for multiple disease control and optimize limited resource utilization, while maximizing the benefits and providing a model for countries in a similar situation. Conclusion: The potential of integrating vector-borne disease control is enormous in South Sudan. However, strengthened coordination, intersectoral collaboration and institutional and technical capacity for entomological monitoring and evaluation, including enforcement of appropriate legislation are crucial.

Original languageEnglish
Article number369
JournalMalaria Journal
Volume12
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - 2013

Keywords

  • Capacity building
  • Community involvement
  • Integrated vector management
  • Intersectoral collaboration
  • Malaria vector control
  • Monitoring and evaluation
  • Policy and strategy
  • South Sudan

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