Investigating Opportunities for Targeted Larval Source Management in Rural Communities Where Malaria Transmission is Dominated by Anopheles funestus

Abstract

Malaria control in sub-Saharan Africa has primarily relied on insecticide-based interventions, such as insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) and indoor residual spraying (IRS). However, challenges like insecticide resistance, mosquito behavioural changes, and suboptimal coverage have limited their effectiveness. Larval source management (LSM), which targets mosquito larvae before they mature, offers a promising complementary strategy. The WHO recommends LSM as a supplement to ITNs and IRS, particularly in areas where mosquito habitats are few, fixed, and easily identifiable, limiting its application in rural regions with diverse habitats. Simplifying LSM for rural areas is crucial, as these regions typically bear a greater malaria burden than urban areas, where LSM is currently prioritised. Strategies such as targeting productive habitats using predictive maps or focusing on key habitats of dominant vectors could improve malaria control. This PhD project hypothesises that targeted approaches may be especially suitable in eastern and southern African countries, including Tanzania, where Anopheles funestus predominates malaria transmission.