1.1 Introduction
Vector control is defined as any method used to limit or eradicate the mammals, birds, insects, or other arthropods that transmit pathogens and parasites from one host to another, thereby reducing the spread of vector-borne diseases (World Health Organization, 2017). Vectors such as mosquitoes, sandflies, blackflies, and ticks are responsible for transmitting parasitic infections including malaria, lymphatic filariasis, leishmaniasis, and onchocerciasis, which remain major public health concerns in tropical and subtropical regions. The management of these diseases is heavily reliant on effective vector control measures that target both the vectors and their breeding habitats (Beier et al., 2008).
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the Aim and Objectives of the study. Others are Significance of the study, Scope of work, Research hypothesis and questions, Limitation of the study and Definition of terms.
1.2 Background of Study
Vector control as a strategy for managing parasitic infections has a long-standing history that dates back to the early 20th century. According to World Health Organization (2017), organized vector control initiatives began with the recognition that controlling mosquito populations could significantly reduce the incidence of malaria and other vector-borne diseases. Early methods primarily involved environmental management, such as draining stagnant water, clearing vegetation around human settlements, and introducing biological predators to reduce vector populations.
Beier et al. (2008) reported that the development of chemical insecticides, particularly DDT in the 1940s and 1950s, revolutionized vector control by allowing large-scale suppression of mosquito populations and significant reductions in malaria transmission. However, widespread reliance on chemical control eventually led to the emergence of insecticide resistance, which limited long-term effectiveness and prompted the development of more integrated approaches combining environmental, biological, and chemical strategies.
According to the World Health Organization (2020), vector control is one of the most effective strategies for preventing and controlling the spread of vector-borne parasitic infections, particularly in regions where such diseases are endemic. The organization reported that over 80% of the global population is at risk of one or more vector-borne diseases, with the burden disproportionately high in tropical and subtropical countries. In Nigeria, parasitic infections such as malaria, lymphatic filariasis, and onchocerciasis remain public health challenges, and vector control measures are central to their management (World Health Organization, 2020).
Beier et al. (2008) asserted that vector control not only interrupts disease transmission but also reduces the incidence and prevalence of infections, thereby alleviating the socio-economic burden on communities. The authors stated that integrated vector management (IVM), which combines environmental, chemical, and biological control measures, is an effective approach for sustainable disease control. Similarly, Okorie et al. (2015) affirmed that Lagos State, being one of the most densely populated areas in Nigeria, experiences a higher risk of parasitic infections due to overcrowding, poor drainage systems, and inadequate waste management, which create favorable breeding grounds for disease vectors.
Ranson and Lissenden (2016) contended that insecticide resistance among mosquito populations poses a significant threat to the long-term success of chemical control methods such as indoor residual spraying (IRS) and insecticide-treated nets (ITNs). In line with this, Afolabi et al. (2018) reported that gaps in surveillance systems, insufficient community engagement, and limited funding remain major barriers to effective vector control in Nigeria (Afolabi et al. 2018). The Lagos State Ministry of Health has implemented various vector control interventions, including public health campaigns, distribution of ITNs, larviciding programs, and environmental sanitation drives. However, despite these efforts, the prevalence of parasitic infections remains significant, suggesting a need for more comprehensive, data-driven, and community-centered approaches. This study is set against the backdrop of examining the role of vector control in the management of parasitic infections.
1.3 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that the emergence of insecticide resistance among vectors is undermining the efficacy of chemical control methods, making it increasingly challenging to achieve long-term reduction in parasitic infection rates (Ranson & Lissenden, 2016). Additionally, public misconceptions about vector-borne diseases, coupled with inadequate health education, are limiting the willingness of some community members to adopt preventive practices. Socioeconomic inequalities are also influencing the capacity of households to invest in protective measures such as window screens and repellents, leaving vulnerable populations disproportionately affected.
Furthermore, the absence of a well-integrated, data-driven surveillance system is making it difficult to track infection trends and design targeted interventions that address high-risk areas effectively (Afolabi et al., 2018). It is against this backdrop that this study seeks to examine the role of vector control in the management of parasitic infections, using the Lagos State Ministry of Health as a case study.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of the study is to assess the role of vector control in the management of parasitic infections in Lagos State, with particular reference to the Lagos State Ministry of Health. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To examine the current vector control strategies implemented by the Lagos State Ministry of Health.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of these strategies in reducing the prevalence of parasitic infections.
- To identify the challenges affecting the implementation of vector control measures.
- To recommend measures for improving vector control interventions in Lagos State.
1.5 Research Questions
The study came up with research questions so as to be able to ascertain the above stated objectives. The specific research questions for the study are stated below as follows:
- What vector control strategies are currently implemented by the Lagos State Ministry of Health?
- How effective are these strategies in reducing the prevalence of parasitic infections?
- What challenges affect the implementation of vector control measures in Lagos State?
- What strategies can be recommended to improve vector control interventions?
1.6 Research Hypothesis
In order to pursue the objective of this study, the following generalized statements have been designed to guide and aids in obtaining the result for the experiment to be conducted. For this work, the null hypothesis will be represented with H0 while the alternative hypothesis will be represented with hypothesis H1.
- Null Hypothesis (H0): Vector control strategies implemented by the Lagos State Ministry of Health have no significant effect on the management of parasitic infections.
- Alternative Hypothesis (H1): Vector control strategies implemented by the Lagos State Ministry of Health have a significant effect on the management of parasitic infections.
1.7 Significance of Study
It is believed that at the completion of the study, the findings will guide policy makers in designing more effective vector control interventions. This research will also enhance community awareness of preventive measures against parasitic infections.
Furthermore, the study will support health practitioners in improving monitoring and evaluation processes. In addition, community members will benefit from improved public health education and reduced disease incidence.
Lastly, the study will contribute to academic knowledge, serving as a reference for future research on vector control and disease management.
1.8 Scope of Study
The study focuses on Lagos State, Nigeria, with a particular emphasis on the vector control programs managed by the Lagos State Ministry of Health. The research covers the identification of vectors, evaluation of control strategies, challenges in implementation, and the impact on the prevalence of parasitic infections within urban and semi-urban communities of Lagos State.
1.9 Limitations of the Study
A study of this nature is bound to experience certain problems as such the constraints imposed on the research include:
- Time Constraints: A study of this nature needs relatively long time during which information for accurate or at least near accurate inference could be drawn. The period of the study was short, time posed as constraints to the research.
- Financial Constraints: The research would have extended the survey to other area at the empirical level, but limitation as included cost of transportation to the source of material and the cost of time setting of the already completed work.
- Response Bias: The study will involve surveys and interviews with cooperative managers and members. Response bias may occur if respondents provide socially desirable answers or if there is reluctance to disclose negative financial information due to privacy concerns or fear of repercussions.
1.10 Definition of Terms
Vector: According to WHO (2017), a vector is an organism, usually an insect or arthropod, that transmits pathogens and parasites from one host to another, causing disease. In this study, vectors include mosquitoes, flies, and ticks responsible for parasitic infections.
Parasitic Infection: Defined as diseases caused by parasites, including protozoa, helminths, and ectoparasites, which infect humans and affect health and productivity (CDC, 2020).
Vector Control: Refers to methods and interventions aimed at reducing or eradicating vectors to prevent disease transmission (Beier et al., 2008).
Insecticide-Treated Nets (ITNs): Nets treated with chemical insecticides used to protect individuals from vector bites, especially mosquitoes (WHO, 2020).
Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS): The application of insecticides to indoor walls and surfaces to kill vectors and reduce disease transmission (Ranson & Lissenden, 2016).
Integrated Vector Management (IVM): A comprehensive approach combining chemical, biological, and environmental measures to manage vector populations effectively (Beier et al., 2008).
…
