Dengue Control in Vanuatu: Towards an Integrated Vertical and Horizontal Control Programme

Like in most Pacific island countries, dengue is not endemic in Vanuatu, and so, dengue transmission begins with the introduction of the virus via infected humans or mosquitoes into the country. The Ministry of Health, Vanuatu, has been successful in containing dengue transmission whenever the virus has been introduced, through an integrated approach using vertical and horizontal components. The identification and containment of dengue cases is dependent on both active and passive surveillance of the human population coupled with larval surveys. During epidemics, control measures emphasize clinical case-management, health education and mosquito control (larval breeding source reduction, larviciding and indoor focal house spraying in the homes of cases). During non-transmission periods, an active mosquito larval source reduction programme with community participation is emphasized along with training for health-care providers and health education of the public.