Vector Databank in the Indian Armed Forces.

BACKGROUND: Medical intelligence of disease vectors deals with understanding vector distribution and control. METHODS: An entomological baseline survey using standard vector sampling techniques was done as a pilot study to map the vectors of defence importance in two cantonments of Pune with a view to establish a vector databank and impart training to armed forces personnel in vector surveillance. RESULT: The project trained 142 armed forces personnel in surveillance techniques in three years. Seventeen species of mosquitoes comprising of eight vector species were collected. Three other vectors viz. Rhipicephalus sanguineus, Xenopsylla cheopis and Leptotrombidium deliense are reported. CONCLUSION: The study emphasizes the need for vector mapping /surveillance in each area for preventing morbidity and mortality amongst troops. It also focuses on indigenous fabrication of vector sampling tools and training of personnel for capacity building which in turn will enable such surveys to be undertaken in other units and deployment areas.

Field evaluation of a mechanical fly catcher in the control of houseflies.

'Fly Catcher', an innovative herbal based mechanical trap was evaluated for its efficacy in reducing fly nuisance in and around messes operating in a large teaching establishment and the adjacent garbage dumps. It is recommended that the 'Fly Catcher' may be used as an adjunct to other routinely followed anti fly measures.

Evaluation of susceptibility status of Culex quinquefasciatus larvae to few organophosphorus insecticides based on logistic regression analysis.

A laboratory trial was carried out at Pune to evaluate the effectiveness of five types of larvicides viz. Malathion, Temephos, Fenthion, Dichlorvos and Fenitrothion against Culex quinquesfasciatus larvae. The expected number of mortality at various dose levels for the five types of insecticides were estimated separately using logistic regression model. Based on the fitted model, the estimated dose level corresponding to the 90 percent mortality (LC90) was obtained for each insecticide. Approximate 95 percent confidence intervals for the LC90 dose, in each case, has been provided. The analysis revealed that out of all the five types of insecticides included in the study, fenthion was the most effective. The estimated value of LC90 in this case was the lowest and is equal to 0.007 mg/L. The effectiveness of temephos, dichlorvos and fenitrothion was found to be approximately same and malathion was the least effective. The results were found to be comparable with that obtained under probit method.