Biological control of human disease vectors: a perspective on challenges and opportunities

Matthew B. Thomas*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

Chemical insecticides are the mainstay of contemporary control of human disease vectors. However, the spread of insecticide resistance and the emergence of new disease threats are creating an urgent need for alternative tools. This perspective paper explores whether biological control might be able to make a greater contribution to vector control in the future, and highlights some of the challenges in taking a technology from initial concept through to operational use. The aim is to stimulate a dialogue within biocontrol and vector control communities, in order to make sure that biological control tools can realize their full potential.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)61-69
Number of pages9
JournalBiocontrol
Volume63
Issue number1
Early online date10 May 2017
DOIs
Publication statusE-pub ahead of print - 10 May 2017

Bibliographical note

© 2017, The Author(s).

Keywords

  • Biocontrol
  • Insecticide resistance
  • Integrated Vector Management
  • Mosquito
  • Vector-borne diseases

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