Simulium surveillance and control in Mahenge, Tanzania: time to think bigger and utilize drone-based remote sensing technology

Abstract Despite the ongoing onchocerciasis control program that has been in place Mahenge for more than two decades using Community Directed Treatment with Ivermectin (CDTI) strategy, persistent transmission of observed, proving CDTI alone is unable to interrupt transmission. This letter aims highlight how drone-based remote sensing technology can be utilized Simulium surveillance and suggest measures employed initiate vector intervention proposed Mahenge. The could assist identification breeding sites even inaccessible parts rivers streams, mapping microenvironmental composition, suggesting potential measures, including whether apply larviciding drones or where ground effort slashing clearing should prioritized. Therefore, now an opportune time combine interventions achieve sustainable