Guidelines for the Structure of Public Health Entomology Laboratories

Abstract

Vector-borne diseases such as dengue, Zika, chikungunya, malaria, and leishmaniasis, among others, have a great impact on public health. This makes it necessary to step up entomological surveillance to guide prevention and control activities. Entomological surveillance is the regular compilation of data on vectors and the analysis of defined entomological parameters, such as the composition of species and their abundance, resistance to insecticides, behavior, and infection rates. The collection and analysis of these and other indicators should generate evidence on which to base a selection of the most appropriate interventions and determine when and where to apply them. To carry out these activities, countries need well-structured laboratories equipped to perform the required functions. Staff must also be trained in these activities... This document provides countries with recommendations for structuring a public health entomology laboratory network. The document will help countries to identify their areas of need and determine how the entomology network can be strengthened, especially in the context of a decentralized health system. The recommendations also consider the different degrees of development and different entomological research needed to support disease prevention and control activities.