Insecticidal Paints: A Realistic Approach to Vector Control?

• Type of Material: Article
• Authors: Karin L. Schiøler, University of Copenhagen; Michael Alifrangis, University of Copenhagen; Uriel Kitron, Emory University; Flemming Konradsen, University of Copenhagen
• Language: English
• Date: 2016-04-21
• Publisher: Public Library of Science
• Publication Version: Final Published Version
• Copyright Statement: This is an open access article, free of all copyright, and may be freely reproduced, distributed, transmitted, modified, built upon, or otherwise used by anyone for any lawful purpose.
• License: Creative Commons Creative Commons CC0 1.0 Universal
• Final Published Version (URL): http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pntd.0004518
• Title of Journal or Parent Work: PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases
• ISSN: 1935-2727
• Volume: 10
• Issue: 4
• Start Page: e0004518
• End Page: e0004518
• Keywords: Insect vectors; Chikungunya infection; Vector-borne diseases; Infectious disease control; Neglected tropical diseases; Insecticides; Porous materials; Disease vectors
• Research Categories: Health Sciences, Public Health; Environmental Sciences

Abstract

Insecticidal paints (IPs) have been commercially available for several years, mainly in Europe and North America, where they are promoted against nuisance pests that dwell on walls and ceilings. Although IPs have been suggested for the control of disease vectors since the 1940s, the concept has never gained much attention compared with Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS), which offers the same basic mode of action. Today, however, IPs are receiving renewed interest for their potential use against disease vectors. This interest can be attributed to several factors, of which we list the most important below, along with the concerns that should be addressed before this intervention tool achieves widespread application.