A state health department declares a dengue outbreak. The primary vector Aedes aegypti is found breeding predominantly in artificial containers indoors. Which vector control method targets immature stages (larvae and pupae) in domestic water containers and is the MOST appropriate for rapid containment?
- A Indoor residual spraying with DDT
- B Space spraying with malathion via fogging
- C Biological control with Gambusia fish in overhead tanks
- D Temephos (Abate) larviciding in domestic containers ✓
Explanation
Temephos (Abate, 1% SG) larvicide applied to domestic water storage containers kills Aedes aegypti larvae at the source and is the NVBDCP-recommended intervention for rapid dengue outbreak containment in urban settings. Indoor residual spraying targets resting adult mosquitoes and is ineffective against Aedes which rests outdoors. Space spraying/fogging kills adult mosquitoes temporarily but has short residual effect and cannot reach containers. Gambusia fish (biological control) are used for larval control in larger bodies of water like overhead tanks and ponds but are not suitable for small domestic containers.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.