Implementation of Integrated Vector Management (IVM) strategy for dengue prevention and control in Thailand

Abstract

Control of dengue vectors is considered as backbone and major control of dengue and dengue hemorrhagic fever since there is no antiviral drug and dengue vaccine is under development. Elimination of larval breeding places and insecticides have been applied to control larvae and adult of Aedes vectors. These control measures have been used for many decades. Vectors have developed resistant to insecticide and further these insecticides become contaminated to environment which possible effect to human and animals. This article reviews development of Integrated Vector Management (IVM) implementation to control vectors of dengue in Thailand based on World Health Organization principles and guidelines. The strategies are including situation analysis, development of course curriculum and training course, guidelines development, conducting pilot project and expand area of operations to provincial public health and local government. The IVM program began in 2009 and pilot project conducted at Ko Yoa Noi, Ko Yao District, Phangnga Province. The programme was expanded to 190 potential risk of dengue outbreaks districts throughout the country. The programme has been implemented with somewhat successfully. However, there were constraints and limitations at the ground levels. High levels of provincial public health offices and local administrations had not been adequately advocated therefore they had not paid much attention to the project. Moreover, local stakeholders, partners and field staff require more training to improve knowledge on basic information on vector and epidemiology of dengue transmission, including analysis and interpretation to local dengue transmission. It is recommended that infrastructures and human resources be considered strengthening for further improvement of program implementation at all levels, especially at local administrative offices, concerned staff, including stakeholders and partners. They need further training on basic information of vector and disease, IVM strategy and sound management of public health pesticide and insecticide resistance monitoring.