Which behavioural characteristic of Aedes aegypti makes source reduction and larval control more effective than space spraying for dengue control?
- A It breeds in clean stored water in domestic containers and has a short flight range around houses ✓
- B It bites mainly outdoors at dusk and dawn
- C It breeds exclusively in polluted drains and septic tanks
- D Its eggs require flowing river water to hatch
Correct answer: A. It breeds in clean stored water in domestic containers and has a short flight range around houses
Explanation
Aedes aegypti is a domestic, container-breeding mosquito that lays eggs in clean stagnant water in man-made receptacles such as tyres, coolers, and storage jars, and it rarely flies beyond about 100 metres from its emergence site. This tight association with human dwellings means removing or covering containers and weekly emptying of stored water directly interrupts transmission. It is a daytime biter that prefers indoors, making options B and C factually wrong.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 26th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.