Characteristics of dengue fever in the Caribbean region II: the vector and its management

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To analyze plans and execution practices in 23 of 30 Caribbean countries for the control of dengue fever through the management of the vector Aedes aegypti during the period 1997-1998. DESIGN AND METHODS: A questionnaire was sent to all public health authorities in 30 Caribbean countries soliciting information on the present status of their national dengue/vector control (VC) programmes. RESULTS: Ae aegypti was reported from 22/23 countries. The percentage of homes found to be positive for Ae aegypti production (House Index), ranged from 0 percent to 62 percent. In 19 (83 percent) countries, environmental sanitation was a key component of the programme while 61 percent routinely used community participation as a support for the official VC programme. Mass media have been used systematically to promote community participation in VC activities in 16 (70 percent) countries and biological control tools used in 50 percent of countries but evaluated in only 35 percent. Personnel employed for VC management varied from a low of 0.025 men/1,000 capita (Jamaica) to 0.44 men/1,000 capita (Trinidad). Quality of staff was also important. In the Cayman Islands, the only country successful in eliminating Ae aegypti, 3 entomologists were employed. Total programme expenditures for dengue prevention ranged from a per capita sum of US$12.89 (Bermuda) to $0.03 (Guyana). CONCLUSIONS: Selection of the best strategies for future strengthening of the various vector management programmes for dengue prevention must be informed by evaluations of current VC programmes.(Au)