Assessment of larviciding efficacy for integrated vector control in the city of Yaoundé, Cameroon

Long-lasting insecticide-treated nets are the main means of malaria prevention in Cameroon, but the rapid evolution of insecticide resistance in main malaria vectors is limiting their efficiency. Complementary approaches are requested to improve the fight against malaria transmission and to restore the efficiency of insecticide-treated nets.

During this study, I will investigate whether adding larviciding for controlling malaria vectors in an urban setting such as the city of Yaoundé, could improve malaria control. After identifying aquatic breeding habitats distribution across drainage systems and beyond, I will assess if regular treatment of these mosquitoes’ habitats with the larvicide vectomax can decrease adult mosquitoes’ densities and malaria transmission. I will also assess if larviciding can reduce the prevalence of pyrethroid resistance in vector populations and if it is a good tool for managing insecticide resistance.

This study will generate a novel and important set of data and knowledge that will be of value for implementing larval control operations in Cameroon and across Africa.