Integrated Vector Management (IVM) is an affordable, effective, and efficient public health intervention for addressing the growing burden of vector-borne diseases, particularly in developing countries where resources are limited. Vector-borne diseases such as dengue and malaria, filaria and chikungunya continue to impose a heavy burden in terms of morbidity and mortality. In addition, they adversely affect the economy and act as a major barrier to socioeconomic development in developing countries like India.

Scope of Integrated Vector Management

§  Reduction of the global and national burden of vector-borne diseases

§  Elimination of malaria, lymphatic filariasis, and visceral leishmaniasis

§  Improvement of public health and promotion of socioeconomic development

§  Control of emerging and re-emerging vector-borne diseases

§  Reduction of the financial burden caused by vector-borne diseases

Pillars of Integrated Vector Management

§  The following vector control strategies form the core components of IVM:

§  Source reduction

§  Appropriate larval control methods (Biological, Chemical and Genetical)

§  Adult mosquito control measures

§  Community education and participation in risk assessment and interventions

§  Challenges in Implementation

Major challenges in the implementation of IVM include inadequate capacity building and poorly defined advocacy roles. The lack of a supportive legislative framework and insufficient intersectoral coordination further hinder effective implementation. Human resource development remains a significant challenge, as skilled manpower and adequate infrastructure from the central level to the grassroots level are essential prerequisites for successful IVM implementation.