Vector Control Challenges in Forest-Rural Settings: A Case Study from Gariyaband District, India

Background: Vector-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, and chikungunya continue to pose major public health challenges in forest-rural regions of India. Gariyaband district in Chhattisgarh, with its dense forests, scattered tribal settlements, and seasonal water bodies, remains a high-risk zone despite ongoing vector control efforts. This study evaluates the implementation and effectiveness of core vector control interventions—Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS), Insecticide-Treated Nets (ITNs), and Larval Source Management (LSM)—in the district.

Methods: A cross-sectional mixed-methods study was conducted between August 2022 and March 2023 across six administrative blocks of Gariyaband. Quantitative data were collected from 600 households across 30 villages using structured surveys. Qualitative insights were obtained through 24 key informant interviews with health officials, ASHAs, and community representatives. Secondary data from NVBDCP reports (2019–2023) and entomological records were reviewed. Intervention effectiveness was assessed in terms of coverage, usage, compliance, and community knowledge.

Results: IRS was planned in 78% of households but executed in only 53%, with refusals and logistical issues cited as primary barriers. Although 68% of households received ITNs, regular usage was limited to 42%, mainly due to discomfort, net damage, and low perceived risk. LSM activities were visible in only 38% of areas, while larval habitats persisted in 57% of surveyed villages. Community awareness regarding disease transmission and breeding site prevention was suboptimal, especially in tribal regions.

Conclusion: Current vector control interventions in Gariyaband are constrained by operational inefficiencies and behavioural barriers. To enhance disease prevention outcomes, region-specific strategies involving stronger community engagement,