Lessons on malaria vector control from Bashful, Doc, Dopey, Grumpy, Happy, Sneezy, and Sleepy

TL;DR

This paper reflects on historical and modern malaria vector control strategies, emphasizing proactive measures and collaboration to combat the ongoing threat of malaria.

Contribution

The paper highlights the enduring relevance of historical examples and the legacy of Manuel Llu-beras in shaping effective mosquito control strategies.

Findings

Proactive mosquito control and comprehensive strategies targeting all life stages are essential for malaria reduction.

Collaboration among stakeholders and sustained investment are critical for successful malaria control.

Manuel Llu-beras's work has significantly influenced global mosquito population management and IRS campaigns.

Abstract

Despite significant advancements in vector control, malaria continues to expand and claim hundreds of thousands of lives annually. A 1943 animated film by Walt Disney remains a poignant reminder of the ongoing challenge and a good example of interventions that have fallen off the pages of history. It underscores two key points. First, the importance of proactive mosquito control measures and the need for comprehensive strategies targeting mosquitoes at every stage of their life cycle. Second, collaboration between all stakeholders and sustained investment are vital for success in malaria control. Manuel Llu-beras is a public health entomologist renowned globally for assembling the business architecture of mosquito population management initiatives in four continents. He crafted the first WHO Operational Manual for Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) and played a pivotal role in designing the structure of the IRS campaign of the US President’s Malaria Initiative and several mineral extraction companies. He served in several post-event emergency mosquito control operations. Prior to establishing Mosquito Den LLC in 2021, he was Executive Director for Public Health for H.D. Hudson Manufacturing from 1996 through 2022. He served as medical entomologist for the US Navy a dozen years. His contributions to public health entomology were recognised with the Global Trade Award from the Global Trade Chamber, the Meritorious Service Award of the American Mosquito Control Association, and two nominations for the Rear Admiral Charles S. Stevenson Award for excellence in US Navy Preventive Medicine.

Figures