WHO recommends a coordinated approach to vector control, which entails a rational decision-making process to optimize the use of available resources for this strategic intervention. Integrated vector management is a combination of different intersectoral interventions aimed at improving the efficiency, ecological soundness and sustainability of disease control measures against several vector-borne NTDs, including the sound management of public health pesticides.

The aim of this approach is to contribute to the achievement of global targets set for control, elimination and eradication of selected diseases, by making interventions targeting vectors and intermediate hosts more efficient, cost effective, ecologically sound and sustainable.

Use of integrated vector management helps vector control programmes to find and use more local evidence, to integrate interventions where appropriate, and to collaborate across the health sector and other sectors, as well as with households and communities.

The concept

IVM is a rational decision-making process for the optimal use of resources for vector control. The approach seeks to improve the efficacy, cost-effectiveness, ecological soundness and sustainability of disease-vector control. The ultimate goal is to prevent the transmission of vector-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, Japanese encephalitis, leishmaniasis, schistosomiasis and Chagas disease.

Rationale

Driving forces behind a growing interest in IVM include the need to overcome challenges experienced with conventional single-intervention approaches to vector control as well as recent opportunities for promoting multi-sectoral approaches to human health.

Operational strategy

The Global Strategic Framework for IVM notes that IVM requires the establishment of principles, decision-making criteria and procedures, together with timeframes and targets. The Framework identifies the following as five key elements for the successful implementation of IVM:

• Advocacy, social mobilization, regulatory control for public health and empowerment of communities.
• Collaboration within the health sector and with other sectors through the optimal use of resources, planning, monitoring and decision-making.
• Integration of non-chemical and chemical vector control methods, and integration with other disease control measures.
• Evidence-based decision making guided by operational research and entomological and epidemiological surveillance and evaluation.
• Development of adequate human resources, training and career structures at national and local level to promote capacity building and manage IVM programmes;