Serum cholinesterase levels of vector control workers in Trinidad, West Indies (1979-1982)

ABSTRACT

During the period 1979-1982, serum cholinesterase levels were determined in blood samples collected from workers employed at the Insect Vector Control Division, Trinidad, W.I. A total of 1,162 blood samples were collected, of which 116 showed suppressed cholinesterase levels. Those workers with low serum cholinesterase levels included 46 residual spraymen, 66 Aedes aegypti operators and 4 controls. The difference in numbers of spraymen and Aedes operators with low cholinesterase levels was significant (p<.001). No significant differences were found in the number of Aedes operators with low cholinesterase levels from North and South Trinidad. Similarly, no differences were found in the number of residual spraymen from North and South Trinidad with low cholinesterase levels. A total of 7 Aedes operators and 4 residual spraymen had persistently low serum cholinesterase levels. It is likely that the main areas of absorption were the hands and forearms, with further absorption occurring via respiration. The need for continuous monitoring and supervision of vector control workers who handle insecticides is stressed (AU)