Propose two realistic and achievable initiatives within the scope of nursing science that could help to mitigate this crisis.

Propose two realistic and achievable initiatives within the scope of nursing science that could help to mitigate this crisis.

World Health Organization (WHO), (2023) proposes what interventions countries should take where the vector has been detected. Countries should undertake interventions directed against An. stephensi with the aim of

controlling this species wherever the vector has been detected.

-Validating the effectiveness of vector control interventions with respect to their impact against

the vector and the prevention of malaria cases.

-Ensure that the immediate focus for the control of An. stephensi is on managing vector larval sites in urban and peri-urban environments.

Recommended activities include:

-Removal of larval sites, where feasible, including by filling in or covering disused wells.

-Modification of larval sites to prevent mosquito access, including the installation of hermetically sealed lids to water storage containers/

-Where larval site removal or modification is not feasible, treatment with WHO-prequalified chemical or biological larvicides, following WHO guidelines is appropriate.

-Direct local authorities to regularly conduct surveillance, map remaining and new larval sites, and inspect the sites for larvae once a week, where feasible.

-Introduce and enforce by-laws to regulate water storage practices and construction work in order to avoid the creation of potential breeding sites.

-Consider the feasibility of introducing or reinforcing the use of insecticide-treated nets or indoor residual spraying in areas where An. stephensi is found.

-Make housing improvements such as window and door screening to prevent mosquitoes from entering human dwellings, with the aim of reducing mosquito entry and human exposure.

-Raise public awareness of this mosquito species, including health education and communication on social and behavioral changes. The aim is to contribute to the reduction of larval sites and to prevent vector proliferation.

-Engage local communities and schools in An. stephensi surveillance and control activities.

-Monitor malaria cases, for potential increases, as this may be indicative of the presence of An. Stephensi and its contribution to transmission.

– Ascertain travel history of cases.

-Prioritize the evaluation of existing and new vector control interventions for their effectiveness (World Health Organization (WHO), (2023).

Reference

World Health Organization (WHO). (2023). Vector alert: Anopheles stephensi invasion and spread in Africa and Sri Lanka. Retrieved from file:///C:/Users/mbach/Downloads/9789240067714-eng.pdf

World Health Organization (WHO). (2023). WHO launches funding appeal to help a record number of people in complex, intersecting health emergencies. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news/item/23-01-2023-who-launches-funding-appeal-to-help-a-record-number-of-people-in-complex–intersecting-health-emergencies