New approaches for integrated and cost-effective malaria vector control

In most parts of sub-Saharan Africa, malaria is still the most important vector borne disease, severely affecting people ́s lives and causing economic loss. Malaria vector control to date almost exclusively relies on long lasting insecticide treated nets (LLINs) and indoor residual spraying (IRS), while other approaches such as larviciding are less implemented. Rising resistances against commonly used insecticides and changes in vector behavior and genetics slow down further reductions in malaria transmission. There is an urgent need for the implementation of additional approaches to appropriately react to vector adaptations. One promising option is the targeting of vector larvae with biological larvicides. During a three-year field trial (EMIRA – Ecologic Malaria Reduction for Africa), evidence was generated on the feasibility, effectiveness, acceptability, and cost of biological larviciding in North-Western Burkina Faso. Here, possible ways on how to further increase cost effectiveness and community support for future programs are presented. Reducing the need for frequent retreatment of vector larvae habitats is a major cost saver for material and workforce. Additional expenditure reductions could be achieved through targeting multiple disease vectors, which in some cases share vector breeding and resting sites. Due to limited overlap in mosquito breeding preference, major cost savings are expected to originate in infrastructural synergy effects. The development of new approaches to further cut down program costs could be a powerful contributor to promote vector larvae control and techniques that target several diseases at once.