Smart Monitoring and Control of the Dengue Vector

This study focuses on improving the monitoring and control of **_Aedes_** mosquitoes (_Aedes aegypti, Aedes albopictus_) which vector dengue. Over half the world's population is at risk of being infected with dengue with low income groups being particularly affected. In Pakistan, dengue outbreaks are regular and quite extensive, causing considerable hardships. For effective dengue management, participation and "buy in" from local communities is crucial. As no effective vaccine against dengue is available, careful monitoring and control of the _Aedes_ mosquitoes is essential. Early detection, especially at low population densities, allows timely action to be taken to suppress pest numbers before they explode following heavy rains. This project will develop inexpensive traps using disposable soft drink bottles, new lures and a fungus which is effective in killing mosquito adults and larvae. These products can be used alone and in a "**Lure & Kill**" (L&K) strategy where gravid _Aedes_ are lured to a trap containing spores of the fungal pathogen. Workshops will provide the opportunity for all stakeholders to evaluate the products and L&K strategy. From this study, we will be able to develop more effective dengue vector management strategies going forward that are fit for purpose.