On 18 August 2026, the APMEN Vector Control Working Group, in partnership with the Outreach Network for Gene Drive Research and the Malaria Consortium, held a webinar for World Mosquito Day, focusing on the future of mosquito vector control. The event attracted over 700 professionals from 69 countries, including experts and public health officials, to discuss innovative tools and collaborations aimed at enhancing malaria and mosquito-borne disease control.
To advance malaria elimination efforts, it is vital to explore new methods that complement existing prevention strategies. Although insecticide-treated nets and indoor residual spraying have significantly reduced malaria cases, they mainly protect indoor environments and do not address outdoor risks, particularly for workers. Current challenges, such as insecticide resistance and outdoor transmission, necessitate new solutions.
Professor Leo Braack, Senior Vector Control Specialist at Malaria Consortium Asia, highlighted that insecticide resistance has led to stagnation in malaria reduction efforts since 2015. He stressed the need for improved entomological skills and local solutions to overcome this issue.
Several promising approaches have emerged to fill the gaps in vector control:
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Spatial emanators: These products release chemicals to lower mosquito populations and protect indoor spaces. Professor Neil Lobo from the University of Notre Dame noted that while these tools could complement existing methods, more research is needed for outdoor applications and cost-effectiveness.
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Endectocides: Medicines like ivermectin can make the blood of treated individuals toxic to mosquitoes, addressing transmission despite current controls. Findings from the BOHEMIA trial in Kenya showed a 26% reduction in malaria incidence with high mosquito-net coverage, suggesting potential for treating livestock as well.
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Gene drive technology: This controversial technique uses CRISPR-Cas9 to alter genetic traits in mosquito populations, aiding control at the population level. Professor Jackson Champer from Peking University pointed out that while promising, gene drives pose unanswered questions regarding resistance and ecological impact.
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Wolbachia: This naturally occurring bacterium can limit disease transmission by certain mosquito species. Professor Claudia Surjadjaja from the World Mosquito Program noted that successful implementation requires not only scientific evidence but also regulation and community involvement.
Looking ahead, Dr Muhammad Mukhtar, Chair of the APMEN Vector Control Working Group, suggested a partnership model among national programmes, academic institutions, and industry to define needs, generate evidence, and drive innovations. He mentioned that existing tools primarily focus on indoor transmission, leaving critical gaps outdoors.
The consensus emerging from this discussion is clear: innovation must build on proven interventions. Existing methods continue to be crucial, but they must be supplemented with novel approaches, tailored to local needs, and supported by community engagement.
As countries and partners strive to blend science, innovation, and community involvement effectively, APMEN will continue to facilitate collaboration and the exchange of practical experiences.
