Entomological Surveillance System for Invasive Aedes Mosquitoes at Points of Entry in West Azerbaijan Province: Strengths and Weaknesses

Samira  Firooziyan; Ahmad Ali  Enayati; Mohammad Mehdi  Sedaghat

doi:10.18502/jad.v19i1.19993

Samira Firooziyan Pathogens and Vectors Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
Ahmad Ali Enayati Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
Mohammad Mehdi Sedaghat Department of Vector Biology and Control of Diseases, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/jad.v19i1.19993

Keywords: Aedes aegypti; Aedes albopictus; Points of entry; West Azerbaijan; Iran

Abstract

Background: Global trade and travel are key factors affecting the initial introduction of vectors and VBDs (vector-borne diseases) in a country. Vectors know no borders; it is essential to establish systems for the surveillance of vectors and vector-borne diseases (VBDs). This study was conducted to investigate the strengths and weaknesses of a newly established entomological surveillance system for Aedes mosquitoes at points of entry (PoE) in West Azerbaijan Province.

Methods: The Aedes surveillance system was implemented in West Azerbaijan Province from 2019 to 2023. Following national guidelines, Aedes eggs and larvae were surveyed at eight international PoEs using ovitraps and by collecting larvae from natural or artificial habitats. A specific checklist designed for this study was employed to evaluate the program.

Results: Over 9008 ovitraps were deployed, while 552 had eggs, including species from the families Phasmatidae and Psychodidae, as well as species from the genus Culex and Aedes caspius. Additionally, 506 larvae were collected during the surveillance period. The program had several key strengths, including a well-structured reporting system, robust technical support, knowledgeable personnel, designated health staff spaces at PoE, standardized surveillance tools, initiatives for environmental enhancement, the establishment of an entomology laboratory, cross-border collaborations, and public health education campaigns. Identified weaknesses comprised staff and entomologist shortages, the absence of a functional insectary, limited engagement of volunteer groups, and inadequate availability of insecticides and tools for emergency vector control.

Conclusions: The study outcomes shed light on the challenges and suggest operational and practical solutions to address the identified shortcomings.