Identification of Semiochemicals for the Effective and Environmentally Friendly Control of Filth Flies, Vectors of Multi-Pathogens Impacting Humans

Filth flies are major vectors of human diseases, especially in regions with poor sanitation, where they transmit viruses, bacteria, protozoa, and helminths via contact with food, wounds, and personal items. With Africa’s population projected to nearly double by 2050, the frequency of human-fly interactions will increase, intensifying pathogen transmission risks and the need for sustainable control methods. Current approaches, like sanitation and insecticides, are often insufficient due to infrastructure constraints and rising insecticide resistance, and they also carry environmental risks to non-target species. This project addresses these challenges by leveraging odour cues that mediate filth fly behaviours as a sustainable control alternative. We aim to identify and test specific odours that drive feeding, oviposition, mating, and avoidance behaviours in filth flies commonly near human settlements. Through field and laboratory studies, we will isolate effective odour-based attractants and repellents suited to the African context. The results will yield novel, eco-friendly strategies for reducing disease transmission, advancing understanding of olfactory behaviours in filth flies, and providing actionable, field-validated solutions for vector control in high-risk areas. This work fills a critical gap in sustainable pest control, offering targeted, environmentally friendly options for filth fly management.