Evaluation of Dengue Vector Surveillance System, 2011–2013, Tainan

DOI: 10.6525/TEB.20150811.31(15).001

Chin-Sheng Chi1*, Wan-Chin Chen2, Yi-Chun Lo2

2015 Vol.31 NO.15

Correspondence Author: Chin-Sheng Chi

  • 1.Southern Regional Center, Centers for Disease Control, Ministry of Health and Welfare
  • 2.Office of Preventive Medicine, Centers for Disease Control, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Abstract:

Dengue has been a majorpublic health issue in Taiwan for many years, especially in areas of Tainan, Kaohsiung and Pingtung which with Aedesaegypti distributed. Centers for Disease Control in Taiwan built dengue vector surveillance system in 2005 for monitoring the distribution of dengue vectors and evaluating control measures. Good vector surveillance is important to control dengue. Therefore, we evaluated dengue vector surveillance systemand analyzed data from 2011 to 2013 in Tainan. We found that the system was good in simplicity, flexibility and stability. Furthermore, it could provide ecological background of dengue vector, such as geographical distribution. On the other hand, the disadvantages of the system are low completeness in some vector indices and former Tainan County. We recommend that the importance of indices in the system should be re-evaluated and the data completeness of first-line investigators should be strengthened. Furthermore, increasing the education of first-line investigators in low incident areas is necessary to elevate the quality of surveillance. Finally, if the system can combine epidemiological and entomological surveillance information, it will be helpful to evaluate the risk of epidemic and adjust control measures in time.

Keywords:Dengue; Vector Surveillance System; Vector Indices; Dengue Vectors; Tainan